Engine failure and crash near Carling Lake

No fatalities • Carling Lake, Canada • Takeoff (climb)

An engine failure during the initial climb led to an aircraft crash into trees near Carling Lake, resulting in no injuries but total hull loss.

What happened

During a flight departing from Carling Lake, an engine failure occurred as the aircraft was ascending to an altitude of approximately 200 feet. Following the loss of power, the aircraft experienced a significant reduction in airspeed and altitude. The descent continued until the plane struck trees located on the shoreline.

While the impact caused a post-crash fire that resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft, all eight occupants successfully evacuated the wreckage. There were zero fatalities and no injuries reported among the crew or passengers following the incident.

Findings

Investigators considered the possibility that the aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during the climb-out phase. It is noted that the pilot may have been unable to regain sufficient altitude to avoid the tree canopy before the collision occurred.

Probable cause

The aircraft may have stalled during its initial climb, preventing the pilot from avoiding the trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1980-05-24 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter accident near Carling Lake, Canada?

An engine failure during the initial climb led to an aircraft crash into trees near Carling Lake, resulting in no injuries but total hull loss.

Were there any fatalities in the 1980-05-24 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1980-05-24 involved a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter, registration C-FGBX, operated by Central Air Transport - Canada, at Carling Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft may have stalled during its initial climb, preventing the pilot from avoiding the trees.

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