On August 17, 1951, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration CF-OCM) operated by Department of Lands & Forestry was involved in an aviation accident near Kenogamisis Lake, Canada during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged the aircraft's altitude during landing due to obscured depth perception caused by glassy surface conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft sustained significant damage during a landing accident caused by poor visibility conditions, resulting in minor injuries to the crew.
What happened
During an approach to land, the pilot encountered glassy surface conditions that obscured depth perception. This environmental factor led to a misjudgment of the aircraft's altitude relative to the ground. As a result of the error, the aircraft type struck the surface with enough force to cause substantial structural damage.
Following the impact, it was determined that the airframe was a total loss and could not be repaired. There were two occupants on board during the incident, both of whom sustained slight injuries. No fatalities were reported in connection with this event.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the pilot's inability to accurately gauge height due to the presence of glassy terrain.
The lack of visual cues provided by the reflective surface prevented an accurate assessment of the descent rate.
Probable cause
The pilot misjudged the aircraft's altitude during landing due to obscured depth perception caused by glassy surface conditions.