2 fatalities

Fatal single-engine aircraft accident near Kirkness Lake (CF-CPS)

Kirkness Lake, CanadaFlight

On December 23, 1950, a Noorduyn Norseman (registration CF-CPS) operated by Ontario Central Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Kirkness Lake, Canada in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot lost orientation while flying through heavy snowfall. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered CF-CPS
Aircraft registered CF-CPS. Photo: clipperarctic / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A single-engine aircraft crashed in a wooded area near Kirkness Lake during heavy snowfall, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

During an active flight, the pilot of a single-engine aircraft encountered intense snowfall. This weather condition led to a loss of spatial orientation while operating over a remote area. The aircraft subsequently impacted the terrain within a forested region near Kirkness Lake.

Following the impact, both individuals on board sustained two fatalities. The two occupants suffered severe injuries during the crash and were transported to a medical facility in Red Lake for emergency treatment. Despite receiving care at the hospital, both victims succumbed to their injuries.

Findings

  • The pilot experienced significant disorientation due to heavy snow conditions.
  • The accident occurred during the en route phase of flight.

Probable cause

The pilot lost orientation while flying through heavy snowfall.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Dec 1950 Noorduyn Norseman accident near Kirkness Lake, Canada?

A single-engine aircraft crashed in a wooded area near Kirkness Lake during heavy snowfall, resulting in two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 23 Dec 1950 Noorduyn Norseman accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Dec 1950 involved a Noorduyn Norseman, registration CF-CPS, operated by Ontario Central Airlines, at Kirkness Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost orientation while flying through heavy snowfall.