Sequence of Events
The aircraft, registration C-GIPR, was a wheel-equipped Cessna 208 Caravan operated by Bamaji Air Inc. (Bamaji). On 08 March 2022, it conducted a series of visual flight rules (VFR) flights from Sioux Lookout Airport (CYXL), Ontario. After checking the aerodrome forecast (TAF) and graphic area forecast (GFA), the pilot departed at 1031 for an ice runway on Springpole Lake, about 78 NM north-northwest of CYXL. The aircraft returned to CYXL at 1200 with 2 passengers. For a second flight to Springpole Lake, the pilot loaded approximately 900 pounds of freight into the cabin, secured under a cargo net. Fuel remaining was 750 pounds, sufficient for the planned flight. The pilot and 1 passenger boarded, occupying the left and right cockpit seats, respectively, both wearing the available 5-point-harness safety belt system.
At 1250, a snow squall moved across CYXL, reducing ground visibility. The pilot taxied to a position on the apron and waited for the squall to pass. At 1301, the pilot taxied to Runway 34 and took off in visual meteorological conditions. The aircraft climbed to about 1800 feet ASL, then, once clear of the control zone, descended to about 1600–1700 feet ASL (roughly 500–600 feet AGL) to remain below the overcast ceiling.
Encounter with Whiteout Conditions
As the aircraft began crossing Lac Seul, Ontario, visibility straight ahead and to the west was good. However, when roughly midway across the lake, it encountered turbulence and immediately became enveloped in whiteout conditions generated by a snow squall. The pilot turned his head to inspect the left wing and saw ice accumulating on the leading edge. He turned attention back to the flight instruments and saw the altimeter descending rapidly. He pulled back on the control column to stop the descent, but within seconds the aircraft struck the frozen surface of Lac Seul, approximately 17 NM north-northwest of CYXL.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft was substantially damaged. There was no fire. The occupants received minor injuries. The Artex Model Me406 emergency locator transmitter (ELT) activated on impact, and its signal was detected by the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Trenton, Ontario, re-tasked a Royal Canadian Air Force aircraft in the area. Three search and rescue technicians (SAR Techs) parachuted into the site within one hour of the accident. The aircraft occupants and SAR Techs were extracted by a civilian helicopter later that day.
Probable Cause
The official findings state: "The accident occurred while the aircraft was crossing a large, frozen, snow-covered lake at low altitude. Other than some small islands and the distant treed shorelines, there were few features to provide visual references. The terrain, coupled with the snow squalls that were passing through the area generated circumstances conducive to the creation of localized whiteout conditions."