Loss of elevator control during approach to Mont-Joli

Casualties unknown • Mont-Joli Airport, Quebec, CA

A Jazz Aviation DHC8-100 experienced a loss of elevator control during an approach to Mont-Joli, Quebec, due to turbulence and icing conditions.

What happened

On 3 February 2016, a DHC8-100 operated by Jazz Aviation was performing an IFR flight from Montréal Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport to Mont-Joli, Quebec. The aircraft was carrying 24 passengers and three crew members. During the descent, the flight encountered icing conditions. While the de-icing system initially appeared to be functioning correctly, the aircraft encountered turbulence during the final approach phase, which resulted in a loss of elevator control.

To recover the aircraft, the pilot-in-command increased the airspeed, which allowed for the restoration of control. The crew successfully completed the landing at Mont-Joli without further complications. There were no injuries and no damage to the aircraft.

The investigation

Following the event, the crew inspected the aircraft once it was on the ground. This inspection revealed that the de-icing system had failed to operate on both the left wing and the left horizontal stabilizer.

Probable cause

The loss of elevator control was caused by turbulence and wind shear encountered during the final approach, compounded by a failure of the de-icing system on the left wing and left horizontal stabilizer.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2016-02-03 DHC-8-102, C-GJMO accident near Mont-Joli Airport, Quebec, CA?

A Jazz Aviation DHC8-100 experienced a loss of elevator control during an approach to Mont-Joli, Quebec, due to turbulence and icing conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2016-02-03 involved a DHC-8-102, C-GJMO, operated by Jazz Aviation LP (dba Air Canada Express), at Mont-Joli Airport, Quebec, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of elevator control was caused by turbulence and wind shear encountered during the final approach, compounded by a failure of the de-icing system on the left wing and left horizontal stabilizer.

Loading the flight search…