Fatal structural failure of amateur-built seaplane near Rivière-Bonnard

Casualties unknown • (amateur-built floatplane) C-FFDA, CA

A Wag-Aero Sportsman 2+2 seaplane crashed in Quebec after the left wing detached during a local flight, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

On 23 September 2022, a Wag-Aero Sportsman 2+2 seaplane was conducting a local visual flight rules (VFR) flight near the Rivière-Bonnard aerodrome (CRB4) in the Passes-Dangereuses territory, Quebec. The aircraft, carrying a pilot and one passenger, departed from Onistagane Lake.

While the aircraft was approximately 5 nautical miles west of Onistagane Lake, the left wing separated from the fuselage. This structural failure led to an uncontrolled descent, and the aircraft struck the terrain. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and both occupants were fatally injured. No fire was reported following the crash.

The investigation

The TSB conducted a Class 4 investigation into the accident. This type of investigation is limited in scope and focuses on establishing the sequence of events and the immediate circumstances surrounding the occurrence.

Probable cause

The left wing of the aircraft detached during flight, causing an uncontrolled descent and fatal impact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2022-09-23 Wag-Aero Sportsman 2+2 accident near (amateur-built floatplane) C-FFDA, CA?

A Wag-Aero Sportsman 2+2 seaplane crashed in Quebec after the left wing detached during a local flight, resulting in two fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2022-09-23 involved a Wag-Aero Sportsman 2+2, operated by Privately registered, at (amateur-built floatplane) C-FFDA, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The left wing of the aircraft detached during flight, causing an uncontrolled descent and fatal impact.

Loading the flight search…