What happened
On the afternoon of the accident, a pilot was operating a rented Cessna 172, registration C-FEAR, for a sightseeing flight. The flight originated from Quebec City/ Jean-Lesable International Airport with the intention of visiting L'Isle-aux-Grues. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and three passengers.
After performing a touch-and-go landing on runway 25 at L'Isle-aux-Grues, the aircraft failed to continue its climb. Instead, the plane began flying at a very low altitude around the island. While traveling approximately a quarter-mile south of the runway, the aircraft struck an eight-foot-high mound of earth and rocks. The impact caused the aircraft to break apart and eventually crash in a ditch, where a fire broke out. The collision resulted in four fatalities.
The investigation
Investigators examined the flight path, the aircraft's mechanical condition, and the pilot's history. The aircraft was found to be in good maintenance standing, and weight and balance calculations were within limits. While the pilot's engine tachometer showed a decrease in RPM, investigators determined this was a result of the propeller striking the mound rather than a pre-impact engine failure. The aircraft was traveling at over 57 mph and was not in a stall at the time of the collision.
Two primary hypotheses were considered regarding the low-altitude flight. One suggested a potential mechanical issue might have prompted an emergency landing attempt; however, no mechanical deficiencies were found. The second hypothesis suggested the pilot may have opted for a low-altitude scenic flight to provide passengers with a better view, given that the delayed departure from Quebec City had left insufficient time for a scheduled landing and stopover.
Findings
- The aircraft struck a mound of rocks and earth while flying just above the terrain.
- The pilot likely failed to see the mound because they were looking straight ahead while descending over the field.
- The aircraft was flying at a low altitude following a touch-and-go maneuver.
- The terrain in the area was unsuitable for a precautionary landing due to its bumpy surface and hidden obstructions.