Aircraft ground impact near Sarcpa Lake

No fatalities • Sarcpa Lake, Canada • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft struck the ground during its final approach to Sarcpa Lake, resulting in minor injuries to all nine people on board.

What happened

During an approach toward Sarcpa Lake, a twin engine aircraft descended below the required altitude and made contact with the terrain. The impact caused the landing gear to be severed from the airframe. Following the initial strike, the plane continued to slide across the ground for a short distance before coming to a complete stop.

There were nine people on board at the time of the accident. All nine occupants sustained minor injuries during the event. While the passengers and crew escaped serious harm, the aircraft itself suffered damage that rendered it a total loss.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the incident occurred while the aircraft was in the final approach phase. The primary factor was that the pilot-in-command permitted the plane to strike the ground at an elevation below the runway level and short of the intended approach end.

Probable cause

The pilot allowed the aircraft to descend below the safe approach path, resulting in a ground strike before reaching the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1961-08-09 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Sarcpa Lake, Canada?

A twin-engine aircraft struck the ground during its final approach to Sarcpa Lake, resulting in minor injuries to all nine people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1961-08-09 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1961-08-09 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration CF-HEI, operated by Nordair, at Sarcpa Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot allowed the aircraft to descend below the safe approach path, resulting in a ground strike before reaching the runway.

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