Floatplane accident during approach to Kasshabog Lake

1 fatality • Kasshabog Lake, Canada • Landing (descent or approach)

A floatplane crashed into the water while attempting to land at a destination camp due to low visibility, resulting in one person missing and several injuries.

What happened

During a flight traveling from Holinshead Lake toward Kasshabog Lake, the pilot encountered worsening weather conditions. As the flight continued, the cloud ceiling dropped significantly, eventually reaching a height near the treetops. Upon reaching the destination outpost camp, the pilot identified a cabin located at the site.

While performing a turn during the final approach to the camp, the aircraft struck the surface of the water. The impact was severe enough to detach one of the floats, causing the vessel to eventually sink. The pilot and four passengers managed to exit the submerged aircraft and began swimming toward the shore. During this evacuation attempt, one passenger disappeared and could not be found. Search efforts were subsequently conducted by divers from the Ontario Provincial Police.

Findings

  • The incident was precipitated by deteriorating weather and a low cloud ceiling.
  • The crash resulted in one fatality (the missing passenger) and several injuries, specifically three slight injuries and one serious injury.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the water during a turn on final approach due to extremely low visibility caused by a dropping cloud ceiling.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-08-24 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Kasshabog Lake, Canada?

A floatplane crashed into the water while attempting to land at a destination camp due to low visibility, resulting in one person missing and several injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-08-24 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 2002-08-24 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration C-GUNE, operated by Kakabeka Air Service, at Kasshabog Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the water during a turn on final approach due to extremely low visibility caused by a dropping cloud ceiling.

Loading the flight search…