Aircraft crash near Yellowknife Airport during descent

2 fatalities • Yellowknife, Canada • Landing (descent or approach)

A small aircraft crashed in a forested region near Yellowknife Airport after encountering severe visibility issues during its approach.

What happened

During an approach to the Yellowknife Airport, the aircraft encountered intense whiteout conditions. As the pilot attempted to descend toward the airfield, the plane became uncontrollable and struck a wooded area situated a short distance from the airport.

The accident resulted in two fatalities and one injury among the occupants on board. The flight was in the descent phase of operation when the loss of control occurred due to the sudden lack of visibility.

Findings

  • The primary factor contributing to the accident was the encounter with whiteout conditions during the landing sequence.

Probable cause

The pilot lost control of the aircraft while descending through whiteout conditions near the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1976-02-24 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Yellowknife, Canada?

A small aircraft crashed in a forested region near Yellowknife Airport after encountering severe visibility issues during its approach.

Were there any fatalities in the 1976-02-24 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1976-02-24 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration C-FBQJ, operated by Gateway Aviation, at Yellowknife, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost control of the aircraft while descending through whiteout conditions near the airport.

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