What happened
On 28 July 2023, a De Havilland DHC-2 Mk. I operated by Air Nootka Ltd. was performing a flight from Louie Bay on Nootka Island, British Columbia, toward the Gold River Water Aerodrome (CAU6).
As the aircraft was approaching the dock at CAU6, it executed an unexpected and sharp right-hand turn. This maneuver caused the aircraft to strike trees, eventually coming to a stop roughly 50 meters inside the forest. The impact caused significant damage to the airframe, and the pilot sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
The TSB conducted a Class 4 investigation into the event. This type of investigation is limited in scope and focuses on the immediate circumstances of the occurrence.