What happened
In 1953, an incident occurred involving a Canadair Canso while performing a practice landing at Ashuanipi Lake in Labrador. During the approach, the starboard float of the aircraft made contact with the water surface in a manner that caused it to dig in. This impact triggered a sudden swing of the airframe.
As a result of the uncontrolled movement, the aircraft rapidly accumulated water and eventually submerged. The aircraft settled on the lakebed at a depth of approximately 200 feet. Despite the severity of the sinking, there were no fatalities or injuries reported during the event.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was the starboard float digging into the water surface during the landing attempt.