What happened
On May 2, 2025, a float-equipped De Havilland DHC-2 Mk. I (Beaver) was performing a local flight departing from the Saint-Mathias Water Aerodrome, located on the Ricelieu River in Quebec. The aircraft, operated by ETA Aviation & César Camp du Nord Inc., was carrying two occupants at the time of the incident. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft experienced a loss of control in roll. This maneuver caused the right wing to strike the water's surface, leading to its detachment from the airframe. Following the impact, the aircraft overturned and submerged underwater. The accident resulted in one fatality and one person with minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the takeoff run and the subsequent structural failure of the aircraft. Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of control and the impact with the water. It was also noted that the aircraft's emergency locator transmitter (ELT) failed to activate during the occurrence.