On January 13, 1982, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration C-GUWC) operated by Air Mistassini was involved in an aviation accident near Lac-Caché, Canada during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An engine fire occurred during the initial climb for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An engine fire occurred during the initial climb of an aircraft departing from Lac-Caché, resulting in an emergency landing on an icy lake.
What happened
During a departure from Lac-Caché, an aircraft experienced a mechanical failure shortly after takeoff. While the flight was ascending to an altitude of approximately 500 feet, the engine ignited, causing a fire. In response to the emergency, the pilot initiated a descent to lower the aircraft's altitude.
The pilot subsequently attempted an emergency landing on the surface of the nearby icy lake. Although the impact and subsequent fire resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft, all four occupants managed to evacuate the wreckage safely. There were zero fatalities and no injuries reported among the crew or passengers following the incident.
Findings
Investigations into the event determined that the primary factor was an engine fire that occurred during the early stages of the climb.
Probable cause
An engine fire occurred during the initial climb for undetermined reasons.