3 fatalities

Twin-Engine Aircraft Collision with NDB Tower at Big Trout Lake Airport (C-GTJA)

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. 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 2026-06-12Data 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 struck an NDB tower during a final approach to Big Trout Lake Airport in poor weather and below minimum visibility, killing three people and injuring nine others.

Accident Overview and Location A twin-engine aircraft was on final approach to Big Trout Lake Airport when it encountered poor weather conditions and limited visibility. During the final approach, the aircraft struck an NDB tower and crashed. ## Weather and Operational Conditions At the time of the accident, visibility was below minimums. The crew reported poor weather conditions and limited visibility while on final approach. ## Casualties The accident resulted in three fatalities and nine injuries. The two pilots, Johnson and Wyndels, and a passenger, Mr. Lukianchuk, were killed. Nine other occupants were injured.