Accident Details
On a non-scheduled flight from Rankin Inlet to Chesterfield Inlet, the aircraft departed at 1440 local time with a pilot, three passengers, and freight on board.
Sequence of Events
At 1455 local time, the flight encountered low clouds and airframe icing. The pilot altered the aircraft's heading toward the coastline of Hudson Bay. Once over the coastline, the pilot turned left in an attempt to reach Chesterfield Inlet. However, the pilot decided to land at the first opportunity. At about 1505 local time, the aircraft struck the snow-covered ground in whiteout conditions. The wreckage was found by an RCMP constable on his annual patrol approximately 30 minutes after the accident occurred. The aircraft was demolished, and the four occupants were seriously injured.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause: The pilot continued VFR flight into unfavorable weather conditions and, attempting to land, collided with the ground.