Aircraft disappearance and crash near Pickle Lake, Ontario

1 fatality • Pickle Lake, Canada • Flight

A flight departing from Pickle Lake, Ontario, failed to reach its scheduled destinations, resulting in a fatal crash following structural failure.

What happened

A flight originating from Pickle Lake, Ontario, was scheduled to visit several locations, including Round Lake, Bearskin Lake, Big Trout Lake, and Big Beaver House. Following its departure, the aircraft failed to reach any of its intended intermediate stops or its final destination. The aircraft remained missing until it was located on 30 May 1963, approximately 73 miles northwest of Pickle Lake at coordinates 52° 24'N - 90°54'W.

Investigations determined that the accident occurred at approximately 1215LT. The impact resulted in one fatality (the pilot) and the total destruction of the aircraft. Evidence recovered from the site indicated that the aircraft experienced a structural failure during flight.

Findings

The investigation into the wreckage revealed that the left wing had broken apart while the aircraft was still airborne, prior to the final impact with the ground. The primary factor identified in this accident was the fatigue failure of the front eyebolt located on the left wing strut.

Probable cause

The structural failure was caused by the fatigue-induced breakage of the front eyebolt on the aircraft's left wing strut.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1963-01-22 Noorduyn Norseman accident near Pickle Lake, Canada?

A flight departing from Pickle Lake, Ontario, failed to reach its scheduled destinations, resulting in a fatal crash following structural failure.

Were there any fatalities in the 1963-01-22 Noorduyn Norseman accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1963-01-22 involved a Noorduyn Norseman, registration CF-BHW, operated by Transair Canada, at Pickle Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The structural failure was caused by the fatigue-induced breakage of the front eyebolt on the aircraft's left wing strut.

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