What happened
On a flight from Prince Rupert to Kincolith, British Columbia, a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver experienced a fatal accident during its landing sequence. After performing three low approaches to the water, the aircraft attempted a fourth landing. Upon touching the surface, the plane skipped, causing the floats to dig into the water. This motion pulled the right wing into the surface, severing it from the fuselage. The aircraft subsequently overturned and became submerged.
Local community members at the Government Dock attempted a rescue using small boats, but they were unable to reach the occupants inside the underwater cabin. The accident resulted in 5 fatalities, including the pilot and four passengers. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the impact and subsequent recovery efforts.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and found no evidence of mechanical failure or pre-existing defects in the engine, systems, or airframe. The aircraft's weight and balance were within certified limits, and maintenance records were found to be in order.
Environmental conditions at the landing site were noted as particularly challenging. At the time of the accident, the tide was near its low point, and the area was experiencing northwesterly winds of approximately 20 knots with frequent gusts. The investigation also looked into communication gaps, noting that direct radio contact between the pilot and the Kincolith agent was not operational, and communication between the agent and the dispatch office was unavailable.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was that the aircraft's floats struck the water in a manner that created a flying attitude the pilot could not control, leading the right wing to dig into the water.
- Conflicting wind and water conditions at the time of the landing contributed to the accident.
- The occupants were not wearing life jackets at the time of the impact.
- While the impact forces were considered survivable and the cabin doors were functional, the occupants did not escape the submerged aircraft.