On December 1, 1977, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration C-GPBO) operated by Airwest Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island), Canada during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While approaching Saturna Island, a twin-engine floatplane encountered marginal weather, struck treetops with its float, lost control, and crashed in flames near Narvaez Bay. All 14 occupants were rescued; the aircraft was destroyed. Probable cause: controlled flight into terrain.
Incident Summary
A twin-engine floatplane, while on approach to Saturna Island, encountered marginal weather with limited visibility. The aircraft descended to an altitude of about 200 to 300 feet. In the descent, one of its floats struck the tops of trees. This impact caused the crew to lose control of the airplane. The aircraft then crashed in a wooded area near Narvaez Bay. A fire broke out after the crash.
Occupants and Aircraft
All 14 persons aboard the aircraft were rescued. The airplane was destroyed as a result of the crash and fire.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the accident was a controlled flight into terrain, which was the probable cause.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 1 Dec 1977 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island), Canada?
While approaching Saturna Island, a twin-engine floatplane encountered marginal weather, struck treetops with its float, lost control, and crashed in flames near Narvaez Bay. All 14 occupants were rescued; the aircraft was destroyed. Probable cause: controlled flight into terrain.
Were there any fatalities in the 1 Dec 1977 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Dec 1977 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration C-GPBO, operated by Airwest Airlines, at Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island), Canada.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Controlled flight into terrain