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Single-engine aircraft crash following collision with power lines (C-GZBE)

Buffalo Narrows, CanadaTakeoff (climb)

On March 11, 1980, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration C-GZBE) operated by Athabaska Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Buffalo Narrows, Canada during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft collided with power cables during the climbing phase of flight following takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 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 crashed during its initial climb after striking utility cables, resulting in one fatality and five injuries.

What happened

During the takeoff phase of flight, a single-engine airplane encountered a catastrophic event while ascending. As the aircraft was climbing, it made contact with overhead power cables. This collision caused the aircraft to crash at the site of the impact.

There were six people on board the aircraft at the time of the accident. The crash resulted in one fatality and five injuries among the occupants.

Findings

  • The aircraft struck power lines during the climb.
  • The collision with utility cables was the primary factor leading to the loss of control and subsequent impact.

Probable cause

The aircraft collided with power cables during the climbing phase of flight following takeoff.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Mar 1980 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Buffalo Narrows, Canada?

A single-engine airplane crashed during its initial climb after striking utility cables, resulting in one fatality and five injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Mar 1980 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Mar 1980 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration C-GZBE, operated by Athabaska Airways, at Buffalo Narrows, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft collided with power cables during the climbing phase of flight following takeoff.

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