Introduction
On 24 April 2019, a Keewatin Air LP Beechcraft B200 (registration C‑FRMV, serial number BB979) was involved in an occurrence near Gillam, Manitoba. The aircraft was configured for medical evacuation flights and was operating as a positioning flight under instrument flight rules.
Flight Details
The flight, designated KEW202, originated from Winnipeg/James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, Manitoba, with a planned stop at Churchill Airport, Manitoba, and final destination at Rankin Inlet Airport, Nunavut. On board were two flight crew members and two flight nurses.
Emergency and Forced Landing
While cruising at flight level 250 at 1814 Central Daylight Time, the flight crew declared an emergency due to a fuel issue. They diverted to Gillam Airport and initiated an emergency descent. During the descent, both engines experienced a flameout. The crew attempted a forced landing on Runway 23, but the aircraft touched down on the frozen surface of Stephens Lake, 750 feet before the runway threshold. The landing gear was fully extended. The aircraft struck the rocky lake shore and traveled up the bank toward the runway area, coming to rest 190 feet before the threshold at 1823:45 Central Daylight Time.
Aftermath
None of the four occupants were injured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. The 406 MHz emergency locator transmitter activated, and emergency services responded. There was no fire.