Accident Overview
On the morning of the accident, a float-equipped de Havilland DHC-2 (Beaver) aircraft, registration C-FPQC (serial number 873), operated by Labrador Air Safari (1984) Inc., departed Crossroads Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador, at approximately 0813 Atlantic daylight time. The aircraft carried the pilot and six passengers.
Engine Failure and Crash
About three minutes after takeoff, while climbing, the engine failed abruptly. At the time, the aircraft was approximately 350 feet above ground level with a ground speed of about 85 miles per hour. The pilot initiated a left turn, and shortly thereafter, the aircraft crashed in a bog. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft, though no post-impact fire occurred. The onboard emergency locator transmitter was activated by the impact forces.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot and four of the occupants sustained serious injuries, while the remaining two occupants received minor injuries. The aircraft was substantially damaged.
Official Findings
The investigation identified two causes and contributing factors. First, the linkpin plugs had not been installed in the recently overhauled engine, which led to inadequate lubrication of the linkpin bushings. This caused increased heat and eventually an abrupt engine failure. Second, immediately after the engine failure, while the pilot maneuvered the aircraft for a forced landing, the aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall from which recovery was not possible at the height it occurred.
Additionally, the investigation noted a risk factor: the failure to utilize available shoulder harnesses increases the risk and severity of injury.