On August 9, 1972, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration CF-IFG) operated by Gateway Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Beniah Lake, Canada in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's attempt to avoid terrain through a steep turn led to a wing strike against trees. 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.
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.