No fatalities

Engine failure leads to emergency landing near McKinstry Lake (C-GAJU)

McKinstry Lake, CanadaFlight

On November 3, 1979, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration C-GAJU) operated by Stewart Lake Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near McKinstry Lake, Canada in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failed during flight for reasons that remain undetermined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an in-flight engine malfunction, resulting in an emergency landing near McKinstry Lake with no injuries reported.

What happened

During a flight near McKinstry Lake, the aircraft's engine ceased functioning properly while in the air. This mechanical failure necessitated an immediate emergency descent by the pilot to find a suitable landing site.

The pilot successfully managed to bring the plane down in the vicinity of McKinstry Lake. Although the impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair, there were no casualties during the event. Both individuals on board, comprising 0 fatalities and 2 survivors, were able to exit the wreckage without sustaining any injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the incident focused on the sudden loss of power during the flight phase. The primary factor identified in the accident was an engine failure occurring while the aircraft was airborne.

Probable cause

The engine failed during flight for reasons that remain undetermined.