Aircraft accident during takeoff from Thubun Lake

No fatalities • Thubun Lake, Canada • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed upside down shortly after departing Thubun Lake due to engine failure caused by improper fuel selector positioning.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Thubun Lake, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude. The descent resulted in a crash that left the plane in an inverted position on the ground. The impact caused the airframe to be damaged beyond repair. While the aircraft was destroyed, the pilot sustained injuries during the event.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the engine ceased operation shortly after the aircraft rotated for takeoff. This loss of power was attributed to a critical error in flight preparation: the pilot had set the fuel selector to an empty tank, failing to follow established pre-flight procedures.

Probable cause

The engine failed during takeoff because the pilot incorrectly positioned the fuel selector valve to an empty fuel tank.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-10-06 Noorduyn Norseman accident near Thubun Lake, Canada?

An aircraft crashed upside down shortly after departing Thubun Lake due to engine failure caused by improper fuel selector positioning.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-10-06 Noorduyn Norseman accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-10-06 involved a Noorduyn Norseman, registration CF-NJV, operated by Buffalo Airways, at Thubun Lake, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed during takeoff because the pilot incorrectly positioned the fuel selector valve to an empty fuel tank.

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