Occurrence
On 26 July 2021, a Cessna A185F seaplane (registration C-GYJX, serial number 18503187), operated by Atleo River Air Service Ltd., was conducting a flight from Tofino Harbour Water Aerodrome, British Columbia, to the Hesquiaht First Nation community at Hot Springs Cove, British Columbia. The aircraft carried one pilot and four passengers. During takeoff at approximately 1138 Pacific Daylight Time, the aircraft momentarily became airborne before control was lost. The aircraft cartwheeled and came to rest inverted in shallow water.
Injuries and Damage
All occupants exited the aircraft onto a sandbar. One passenger sustained serious injuries; the remaining three passengers and the pilot received minor injuries. The aircraft was substantially damaged.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada conducted a class 3 investigation into the occurrence. No signal was received from the 406 MHz emergency locator transmitter. The investigation determined that an encounter with a boat wake during takeoff led to the loss of control and overturn of the seaplane.