What happened
A de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver was conducting a routine transport flight from a floating fishing resort in Givenchy Bay to Sandspit, British Columbia. The aircraft, operated by Harbour Air, was carrying the pilot, one passenger, and a heavy load of fish. After departing the resort, the aircraft failed to arrive at its destination, prompting a search operation.
The wreckage was discovered submerged at Hunter Point, approximately seven nautical miles from the departure site. The impact, which occurred during daylight hours, resulted in two fatalities and the total destruction of the aircraft. Evidence suggests the plane struck the rocks and surf in a nose-down, left-wing-low attitude at a speed of approximately 60 knots.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the weather, and the weight and balance of the load. The engine showed no signs of malfunction prior to the impact, and the propeller blades indicated the engine was still producing power at the time of the crash.
Regarding the aircraft's weight, the investigation found that the estimated gross weight of the aircraft was approximately 5,295 pounds. This exceeded the 5,000-pound maximum allowable weight for an amphibious Beaver operating from water. Furthermore, the company's operations manual failed to specify the lower weight limit required for the amphibious configuration, a detail the pilot was reportedly unaware of.
Findings
- The aircraft likely stalled at an altitude insufficient to permit recovery.
- Low cloud ceilings, estimated between 200 and 300 feet, and reduced visibility likely contributed to the pilot's inability to maintain control.
- The aircraft was operating significantly over its maximum allowable weight for water operations.
- The cargo was secured with rope rather than a suitable cargo net, as the net provided was not appropriate for the load being carried.