Fatal aircraft accident during low-altitude maneuver

2 fatalities • Beniah Lake, Canada • Flight

A single-engine aircraft crashed into trees and ignited following an aggressive turn to avoid terrain, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

While flying at a low altitude across a lake, the pilot attempted a sharp left-hand turn intended to bypass a hill situated 200 feet above the surface. During this maneuver, the tip of the left wing made contact with several spruce trees before hitting the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to cartwheel, subsequently triggering a post-crash fire that consumed the wreckage.

Findings

  • The accident resulted in two fatalities, including the pilot, and three injuries among the passengers.
  • The aircraft type was destroyed during the collision and subsequent fire.
  • The primary cause of the crash was the wing strike against trees during an evasive turn.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to avoid terrain through a steep turn led to a wing strike against trees.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-08-09 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Beniah Lake, Canada?

A single-engine aircraft crashed into trees and ignited following an aggressive turn to avoid terrain, resulting in two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-08-09 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-08-09 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration CF-IFG, operated by Gateway Aviation, at Beniah Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to avoid terrain through a steep turn led to a wing strike against trees.

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