What happened
On June 30, 2011, a float-equipped de Havilland DHC-2, registration C-GUJX, departed from a lake near a remote fishing cabin in the Buss Lakes area. The aircraft, operated by Lawrence Bay Airways Ltd., was performing a commercial charter flight to Southend, Saskatchewan, carrying one pilot and four passengers.
Following a delay caused by passing cumulonimbus clouds, the aircraft departed approximately one hour later than scheduled. During the flight, the aircraft was maneuvering at a low altitude, heading southwest rather than toward its intended destination. The aircraft struck the shoreline of a lake approximately 2 nm southeast of its departure point. The impact was severe, resulting in 5 fatalities. The wreckage was found partially submerged in shallow water with no post-crash fire.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's qualifications, and the prevailing meteorological conditions. The de Havilland DHC-2 was found to be well-maintained, with recent inspections completed according to regulations. The pilot was fully certified and highly experienced, with over 4,000 total flying hours.
Weather assessments revealed that while a significant weather system had recently passed through the area, a brief period of clearing had occurred before the flight. However, the development of stratiform clouds and the potential for local dense fog patches were noted. Investigators also reviewed the aircraft's weight and balance, noting that while the aircraft was within legal limits, it was operating near its maximum gross weight, with a center of gravity that could have been near the aft limit.
Findings
- The aircraft was likely maneuvering at a low altitude, possibly following the shoreline for the passengers' benefit.
- The aircraft's low forward speed and high rate of descent at impact are consistent with an aerodynamic stall.
- The pilot likely exceeded the critical angle of attack while maneuvering, at an altitude that left no margin for recovery.
- The heavy weight of the aircraft and a potentially aft center of gravity may have contributed to the stall.
- Potential fog patches in the area may have acted as a distraction, increasing the pilot's workload.