Fatal aircraft crash during search and rescue mission in Palautuk

8 fatalities • Paulatuk, Canada • Flight

An aircraft crashed during a nighttime search and rescue operation near Palautuk, resulting in the deaths of all eight people on board.

What happened

During a nighttime search and rescue (SAR) operation in the vicinity of Palautuk, an aircraft experienced a catastrophic loss of control. While operating at a relatively low altitude, the pilot-in-command was executing a turn when the aircraft became uncontrollable. The flight subsequently entered a stall, leading to a crash at the scene.

There were eight fatalities resulting from the accident, as all occupants on board perished in the impact.

Findings

Preliminary details indicate that the loss of control occurred during a maneuver at low altitude. The sequence of events concluded with the aircraft entering a stall immediately following the completion of a turn.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during a low-altitude turn while performing a search and rescue mission.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-11-02 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Paulatuk, Canada?

An aircraft crashed during a nighttime search and rescue operation near Palautuk, resulting in the deaths of all eight people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-11-02 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 8 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-11-02 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 12930, operated by Royal Canadian Air Force - RCAF, at Paulatuk, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during a low-altitude turn while performing a search and rescue mission.

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