What happened
During a period of holding outside the Red Lake (YRL) control zone, a pilot was awaiting a special VFR clearance. While maneuvering, the pilot initiated a descending turn intended to steer the Cessna 172 away from a group of large birds. During this maneuver, the right wing of the aircraft made contact with the surface of Ranger Lake, causing the plane to overturn.
A military DHC-8 diverted to the Red Lake area and successfully located the wreckage on the western side of the lake. Upon arrival, the aircraft was found to be partially submerged, with the pilot positioned on the wing of the plane. A floatplane, registration C-FVTU, arrived at the scene and rescued the pilot, transporting him back to Red Lake.
Findings
The pilot survived the incident but required medical attention for several injuries, including hypothermia, facial trauma, and injuries to the arms and shoulders. The primary factor in the accident was the collision with the water surface during an evasive maneuver.