On September 2, 1986, a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter (registration C-FBER) operated by Pickle Lake Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Pickle Lake, Canada in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine reduction gear assembly had failed as the result of lack of lubrication. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Shortly after takeoff from Pickle Lake, the pilot heard a loud bang. The engine lost power, caught fire, and failed. Unable to reach an airport, the pilot attempted an emergency landing. The aircraft crashed in swampy scrub and burst into flames. Both occupants escaped uninjured, but the aircraft was destroyed.
Incident Details
Minutes after takeoff from Pickle Lake, while the aircraft was at cruising altitude, the pilot heard a loud bang. The engine subsequently lost power, caught fire, and failed entirely. Unable to reach the nearest airport, the pilot initiated an emergency landing.
Emergency Landing and Crash
During the emergency landing attempt, the aircraft crashed in a swampy scrub area and burst into flames. Both occupants escaped the wreckage uninjured. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the engine reduction gear assembly had failed as a result of lack of lubrication.