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Single-engine aircraft accident involving takeoff failure (XV273)

Pincher Creek, CanadaTakeoff (climb)

On May 28, 1978, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration XV273) operated by British Army Air Corps was involved in an aviation accident near Pincher Creek, Canada during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft failed to establish a positive rate of climb because the takeoff was performed on a descending slope with a tailwind component. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine airplane failed to gain altitude following a takeoff into a tailwind, resulting in a collision with trees and an impact in a marsh.

What happened

During the takeoff phase of flight, a single-engine airplane attempted departure while facing a tailwind on a downward-sloping runway. This configuration prevented the aircraft from achieving the necessary climb gradient. During the initial ascent attempt, the plane experienced several bounces on the surface before deviating from the intended path.

The aircraft subsequently collided with a line of trees. Following this impact, the plane entered a stall and eventually came to a stop within a nearby marshland area.

Findings

  • The accident was driven by the inability to climb due to the combination of a downhill takeoff roll and a tailwind.
  • There were a total of two injuries reported among the occupants, while three other individuals on board remained unharmed.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to establish a positive rate of climb because the takeoff was performed on a descending slope with a tailwind component.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 May 1978 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Pincher Creek, Canada?

A single-engine airplane failed to gain altitude following a takeoff into a tailwind, resulting in a collision with trees and an impact in a marsh.

Were there any fatalities in the 28 May 1978 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 May 1978 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration XV273, operated by British Army Air Corps, at Pincher Creek, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to establish a positive rate of climb because the takeoff was performed on a descending slope with a tailwind component.

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