What happened
On the day of the incident, a DHC-6 Twin Otter, registered as C-FMOL, was performing a takeoff from a gravel airstrip measuring roughly 1,500 feet in length. The departure was taking place at Mile 222 of the Canol Road, situated near the Tsichu River in Canada. The flight was intended to transport outfitter supplies and hunting equipment to a different location at Mile 170 of the Canol Road.
As the aircraft began its takeoff roll toward the north, it was flying into the wind. Shortly after the aircraft became airborne, it was struck by a powerful crosswind from the right. This wind caused the plane to settle back onto the gravel surface. During this process, the left wheel made contact with overgrown willow vegetation at the edge of the runway. The aircraft then veered toward the left at a speed of approximately 60 knots.
Before the crew could recover flying speed, the aircraft exited the end of the strip and came to a stop in a shallow creek. The impact resulted in significant damage to the nose gear, the right main gear, and the forward section of the fuselage, while the right wing partially detached from the airframe. There were zero fatalities and zero injuries reported among the pilot and first officer.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating at or near its maximum gross weight during the departure.
- Strong right-side crosswinds contributed to the aircraft settling back onto the strip and subsequent loss of directional control.