3 fatalities

Crash After Takeoff from Vancouver Seaplane Base Kills Three (CF-GEB)

Vancouver, CanadaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 2, 1966, a Grumman G-21A Goose (registration CF-GEB) operated by BC Air Lines was involved in an aviation accident near Vancouver, Canada during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the pilot suffered a spatial disorientation while flying in snow falls. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 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

Minutes after takeoff from Vancouver seaplane base, an airplane crashed in shallow water during an approach in poor visibility due to snow showers, killing the pilot and two passengers and injuring six others.

Overview

Shortly after departing from Vancouver seaplane base, the airplane encountered deteriorating weather conditions with snow showers. The crew decided to return to the departure point. While on approach in poor visibility, the pilot-in-command lost control of the aircraft, which then crashed into shallow water.

Occupant Casualties

The accident resulted in the deaths of the pilot and two passengers. Additionally, six other occupants sustained injuries.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the probable cause is that the pilot suffered spatial disorientation while flying in snow falls.