What happened
A routine coastal service operating between Campbell River and various stops along the coast was underway when the accident occurred. The aircraft, carrying the pilot and five passengers, had recently arrived at the Shoal Harbour dock area. After a single passenger boarded the plane, the aircraft taxied away from the dock to begin its departure.
The flight departed from the water heading in a southeasterly direction. Shortly after ascending to an altitude of approximately 100 feet, the aircraft executed a 180-degree turn to the left. During this maneuver, the plane descended at a 30-degree angle and struck the ground. The impact site was located roughly 50 feet from the water's edge, just inside the nearby treeline.
Upon hitting the ground, the aircraft caught fire and exploded. Although one passenger managed to exit the wreckage immediately following the crash, they later passed away at a hospital in Vancouver. There were no other survivors among the six people on board.
Findings
Investigators were unable to establish an exact reason for the accident. Evidence indicated that the aircraft was in serviceable condition prior to the impact.