Aircraft impact following wing strike on water

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

An aircraft struck the water and subsequently crashed on an island shore after the left wing dipped during the initial climb.

What happened

During the early stages of flight, shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a sudden drop of its left wing, which made contact with the surface of the water. At the time of the incident, weather conditions were characterized by a temperature of 23° C and winds measuring 15 knots.

Following the initial impact with the water, the aircraft underwent a turn of roughly 150 degrees before ultimately crashing onto the shore of an island. The collision with the land triggered a fire that destroyed the majority of the airframe. Despite the intensity of the post-crash fire, there were no injuries reported among the pilot and the four passengers on board.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor contributing to the loss of control was improper compensation for wind during the flight phase.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to properly adjust for wind conditions during the climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1976-07-23 De Havilland DHC-3 Otter accident near Nym Lake, Canada?

An aircraft struck the water and subsequently crashed on an island shore after the left wing dipped during the initial climb.

Were there any fatalities in the 1976-07-23 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 1976-07-23 involved a De Havilland DHC-3 Otter, registration C-FODP, operated by Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, at Nym Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to properly adjust for wind conditions during the climb.

Loading the flight search…