4 fatalities

1970-10-15: Canadian Vickers PBV-1 Canso (OA-10 Canso) (N610FF) — Barringer Research — Rhinelander, United States of America

Rhinelander, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On October 15, 1970, a Canadian Vickers PBV-1 Canso (OA-10 Canso) (registration N610FF) operated by Barringer Research was involved in an aviation accident near Rhinelander, United States of America during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Inadequate preflight preparation on part of the crew who failed to obtain/maintain flying speed at takeoff. It was determined that the airplane stalled due to an excessive accumulation of ice on airframe. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781235849Data APIEditorial standards

A seaplane stalled and crashed in flames during initial climb after a post-maintenance test flight, resulting in two fatalities and three serious injuries.

Accident Overview

A seaplane conducting a local test flight following an electric equipment post-maintenance check crashed shortly after liftoff. During the initial climb, the aircraft encountered difficulties gaining altitude, stalled, and crashed in flames in an open field. The aircraft was destroyed in the accident.

Occupant Injuries

Both pilots were killed, while three other occupants sustained serious injuries. The exact number of occupants on board was not specified.

Probable Cause

According to official findings, the probable cause of the accident was inadequate preflight preparation by the crew, who failed to obtain and maintain flying speed during takeoff. Investigators determined that the aircraft stalled due to an excessive accumulation of ice on the airframe. At the time of the accident, approximately 50% of the aircraft's surfaces were covered with frost that had not been removed prior to takeoff.

Flight Purpose

The flight was classified as a local test flight, specifically to check electric equipment after maintenance. The source also notes the flight involved mineral research, though further details are not provided.