3 fatalities

1979-11-01: De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (C-GTJA) — Austin Airways — Big Trout Lake, Canada

Big Trout Lake, CanadaLanding (descent or approach)

On November 1, 1979, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration C-GTJA) operated by Austin Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Big Trout Lake, Canada during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck an NDB tower while operating in weather conditions where visibility was below established minimums. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781224654Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered C-GTJA
Aircraft registered C-GTJA. Photo: abdallahh from Montréal, Canada / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into an NDB tower during its final approach to Big Trout Lake Airport due to low visibility.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight to Big Trout Lake Airport, a twin engine airplane encountered adverse weather conditions characterized by restricted visibility. While maneuvering for landing, the aircraft collided with an NDB tower, resulting in a crash.

The accident resulted in 3 fatalities and 9 injuries. The occupants of the aircraft included the pilot, the crew, and one passenger.

Findings

Investigations into the event determined that at the time of the collision, visibility levels were below minimums. This lack of adequate visual reference during the approach contributed to the impact with the navigation infrastructure.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck an NDB tower while operating in weather conditions where visibility was below established minimums.