Aircraft crash near Kuujjuarapik following engine and landing gear issues

No fatalities • Kuujjuarapik (Poste-de-la-Baleine), Canada • Landing (descent or approach)

A propeller overspeed event followed by a landing gear malfunction led to a fatal-free crash in a wooded area near Kuujjuarapik Airport.

What happened

During the initial climb phase after departing from Kuujjuarapik Airport, an engine malfunction occurred when a propeller entered an overspeed condition. The flight crew attempted to manage the situation but were unsuccessful in feathering the propeller.

In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot initiated an emergency return to the departure airfield. However, during the descent, the cockpit received an indication that the landing gear was not properly extended. This technical issue necessitated a delay in the landing attempt, causing the aircraft to overshoot its intended path.

As the aircraft attempted to maneuver, it lost sufficient airspeed and entered a stall. The aircraft type subsequently impacted trees within a forested region situated close to Kuujjuarapik. Although the impact resulted in the total destruction of the plane, all 16 occupants were successfully evacuated from the wreckage without reported fatalities.

Findings

  • An overspeeding propeller could not be feathered by the crew.
  • An unsafe landing gear indication prevented a timely landing and led to an overshoot.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a stall and struck trees after a propeller overspeed and subsequent landing gear malfunction forced an unstable approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-09-24 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident near Kuujjuarapik (Poste-de-la-Baleine), Canada?

A propeller overspeed event followed by a landing gear malfunction led to a fatal-free crash in a wooded area near Kuujjuarapik Airport.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-09-24 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-09-24 involved a Consolidated PBY Catalina, registration CF-AAD, operated by Austin Airways, at Kuujjuarapik (Poste-de-la-Baleine), Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered a stall and struck trees after a propeller overspeed and subsequent landing gear malfunction forced an unstable approach.

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