On August 31, 1946, a Canadian Vickers Stranraer (registration CF-BYL) operated by Queen Charlotte Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Prince Rupert, Canada during landing or approach. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control due to poor visibility and fog during approach. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A small aircraft named Skeena Queen crashed into Chatham Sound while approaching Prince Rupert due to poor visibility, resulting in the deaths of all seven people on board.
What happened
During an approach to Prince Rupert, the flight crew encountered deteriorating weather conditions characterized by fog and significantly reduced visibility. These environmental factors led to a loss of control over the aircraft, which subsequently impacted the water surface of Chatham Sound. The accident resulted in the total loss of the airframe, which had been christened 'Skeena Queen'. All seven occupants aboard the aircraft were killed in the incident.
Findings
The primary contributing factor to the accident was the crew's encounter with poor visibility caused by fog during the final approach phase. This condition directly precipitated the loss of control that led to the impact with the water.
Probable cause
Loss of control due to poor visibility and fog during approach
What happened in the 31 Aug 1946 Canadian Vickers Stranraer accident near Prince Rupert, Canada?
A small aircraft named Skeena Queen crashed into Chatham Sound while approaching Prince Rupert due to poor visibility, resulting in the deaths of all seven people on board.
Were there any fatalities in the 31 Aug 1946 Canadian Vickers Stranraer accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 7 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Aug 1946 involved a Canadian Vickers Stranraer, registration CF-BYL, operated by Queen Charlotte Airlines, at Prince Rupert, Canada.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of control due to poor visibility and fog during approach
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