Fatal single-engine aircraft accident near Otter Lake, Saskatchewan

6 fatalities • Otter Lake, Canada • Takeoff (climb)

A single-engine airplane crashed into a wooded area during its initial climb following takeoff from Otter Lake, resulting in six fatalities.

What happened

Following departure from Otter Lake, Saskatchewan, a single-engine aircraft entered an unstable flight path during the initial climb phase. The aircraft began executing a series of alternating left and right turns, accompanied by rolling motions in both directions. This instability continued until the plane pitched downward, ultimately impacting a wooded area.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airplane. There were six fatalities among the occupants on board during the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the crash highlighted several critical safety concerns regarding the flight's configuration. It was noted that the aircraft was carrying six individuals, yet only two safety belts were available for use by the occupants. Additionally, data indicated that the aircraft was operating at an unsafe weight, as the total weight at the time of the accident was 455 lbs above the maximum gross weight.

Probable cause

The exact cause remains undetermined, though the aircraft was significantly overweight and lacked sufficient safety restraints for all occupants.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1979-10-09 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Otter Lake, Canada?

A single-engine airplane crashed into a wooded area during its initial climb following takeoff from Otter Lake, resulting in six fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1979-10-09 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1979-10-09 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration C-GPVE, operated by Great Shield Air, at Otter Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact cause remains undetermined, though the aircraft was significantly overweight and lacked sufficient safety restraints for all occupants.

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