Occurrence
Bearskin Lake Air Service LP flight 311, operating as Bearskin 311, was a scheduled passenger flight from Sioux Lookout, Ontario, to Red Lake, Ontario. The aircraft, a Fairchild SA227-AC Metro III (registration C-FFZN, serial number AC 785-B), departed under instrument flight rules with two pilots and five passengers on board.
At 1827 Central Standard Time, the crew reported being 5 nautical miles from Red Lake Airport on final approach for Runway 26. Shortly thereafter, they declared an emergency. The aircraft struck trees and power lines, crashing just south of the airfield adjacent to Ontario Highway 125. A post-crash fire ensued, completely destroying the aircraft.
Emergency Response and Survivors
Emergency response units were dispatched to the crash site. Two passengers were able to evacuate the aircraft and were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The two pilots and the remaining three passengers sustained fatal injuries. The aircraft's 406 MHz emergency locator transmitter did not activate during the accident.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada conducted a class 3 investigation. The investigation analyzed a small number of safety issues and may result in recommendations. According to a news release from the board, engine power loss led to loss of control on final approach.