On June 21, 1990, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration C-FWAB) operated by Ptarmigan Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Thistle Lake, Canada during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the loss of control during the initial climb remains undetermined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A helicopter crash involving a collision with another aircraft resulted in two fatalities during takeoff from Thistle Lake.
What happened
Following the delivery of supplies to personnel at a nearby mine, the crew initiated departure from Thistle Lake. Shortly after the aircraft left the ground and reached an altitude of approximately 10 feet, it experienced a right-hand bank. During this maneuver, the aircraft's rotor made contact with the rotor of a stationary Bell 206 parked on the ground.
The impact caused the aircraft to lose stability, leading to a crash several dozen meters from the initial point of collision. Upon hitting the ground, the helicopter caught fire. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as both pilots on board were killed in the event.
Findings
Official investigations into the incident concluded that the specific reason for the loss of control during the climb could not be determined.
Probable cause
The exact cause of the loss of control during the initial climb remains undetermined.