On July 13, 1957, a Noorduyn Norseman (registration CF-ILH) operated by Nordair was involved in an aviation accident near Culotte Lake, Canada in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged the distance to the water surface while executing a turn at low altitude. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While returning to Roberval due to deteriorating weather, a pilot's low-altitude turn resulted in the airplane striking Culotte Lake. One passenger died; three others were rescued. Investigation cites pilot misjudgment of distance to water.
Accident Overview
The accident occurred during a flight en route to Archer Lake in northern Quebec. As weather conditions deteriorated, the pilot decided to return to Roberval. While executing a turn at low altitude, the airplane struck the water surface of Culotte Lake and crashed. The impact resulted in the death of one passenger. The three other occupants were rescued.
Investigation and Probable Cause
The official investigation into the accident identified the probable cause. The cause was determined to be an error on the part of the pilot, who misjudged the distance between the aircraft and the water surface while making a turn at low altitude. No other factors were cited in the findings.
What happened in the 13 Jul 1957 Noorduyn Norseman accident near Culotte Lake, Canada?
While returning to Roberval due to deteriorating weather, a pilot's low-altitude turn resulted in the airplane striking Culotte Lake. One passenger died; three others were rescued. Investigation cites pilot misjudgment of distance to water.
Were there any fatalities in the 13 Jul 1957 Noorduyn Norseman accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Jul 1957 involved a Noorduyn Norseman, registration CF-ILH, operated by Nordair, at Culotte Lake, Canada.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot misjudged the distance to the water surface while executing a turn at low altitude.
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