On December 4, 1945, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration G-CAVH) operated by International Airways of Canada was involved in an aviation accident near Hidden Lake, Canada in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with treetops while flying in a snowstorm. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A single-engine aircraft struck treetops while navigating a snowstorm near Hidden Lake, resulting in injuries to both occupants and total loss of the airframe.
What happened
The incident occurred during flight operations in Hidden Lake, situated approximately 26 miles northeast of Yellowknife. The pilot was operating a single-engine aircraft under adverse weather conditions characterized by a snowstorm. During this period, the aircraft descended into terrain and struck treetops before crashing into a wooded area. Both individuals on board sustained injuries, and the airframe was destroyed in the impact.
Findings
The primary contributing factor to the accident was the collision with natural obstacles caused by reduced visibility and low altitude during the snowstorm.
Probable cause
Collision with treetops while flying in a snowstorm
What happened in the 4 Dec 1945 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident near Hidden Lake, Canada?
A single-engine aircraft struck treetops while navigating a snowstorm near Hidden Lake, resulting in injuries to both occupants and total loss of the airframe.
Were there any fatalities in the 4 Dec 1945 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Dec 1945 involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth, registration G-CAVH, operated by International Airways of Canada, at Hidden Lake, Canada.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Collision with treetops while flying in a snowstorm
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