Runway excursion involving Beechcraft King Air in Kugaaruk, Nunavut

Casualties unknown • Kugaaruk Airport, Nunavut, CA

A Buffalo Airways Ltd. Beechcraft King Air A100 veered off the runway and struck a snowbank during a charter flight in Nunavut.

What happened

On 28 April 2020, a Beechcraft King Air A100, registered as C-FCBZ, was operating a scheduled charter flight from Cambridge Bay Airport to Kugaaruk Airport in Nunavut. The flight, operated by Buffalo Airways Ltd., was being conducted under instrument flight rules and was carrying freight along with two crew members.

During the daylight hours, at approximately 1350 Mountain Daylight Time, the aircraft touched down on Runway 23 at Kugaaruk Airport. Shortly after the wheels made contact with the runway, the aircraft drifted toward the right side of the pavement and exited the runway surface. The aircraft eventually stopped after impacting a snowbank located on the northwest side of the runway. While there were no injuries to the crew, the aircraft suffered substantial damage. The 406 MHz emergency locator transmitter failed to trigger during the event.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the circumstances leading to the aircraft departing the runway surface. Investigators examined the approach conditions and the aircraft's behavior immediately following touchdown. The inquiry established that the aircraft was operating in conditions that were below the required visibility for the aerodrome.

Probable cause

The runway excursion was caused by a continued approach into Kugaaruk Airport while visibility was below the required aerodrome operating minimums.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2020-04-28 Beechcraft King Air A100, C-FCBZ accident near Kugaaruk Airport, Nunavut, CA?

A Buffalo Airways Ltd. Beechcraft King Air A100 veered off the runway and struck a snowbank during a charter flight in Nunavut.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2020-04-28 involved a Beechcraft King Air A100, C-FCBZ, operated by Buffalo Airways Ltd., at Kugaaruk Airport, Nunavut, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The runway excursion was caused by a continued approach into Kugaaruk Airport while visibility was below the required aerodrome operating minimums.

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