What happened
A flight operating out of Vancouver, British Columbia, was performing a repositioning maneuver to Powell River to begin a cargo collection mission. The aircraft, operated by a two-person crew, entered the traffic pattern at Powell River via a straight-in right downwind for Runway 09. During this period, the region was experiencing a passing weather system, causing wind conditions to shift from light southwesterly gusts to more intense northwest winds ranging from 11 to 37 knots.
During the initial approach, the aircraft was traveling at a higher speed and at a lower altitude than typical, while also failing to maintain alignment with the runway centerline. This led the crew to execute an overshoot to attempt a second approach. At approximately 1639 Pacific standard time, the aircraft landed on the wet runway at a point at least halfway down the strip. Upon touchdown, the aircraft began to hydroplane. In an effort to stop the aircraft and overshoot the runway, the crew applied engine power, but the maneuver was unsuccessful. The aircraft subsequently overran the runway and struck an unprepared area on the airport grounds. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft, with one fatality and one serious injury among the crew.
Findings
- The runway surface was wet due to passing weather systems.
- Hydroplaning occurred following the aircraft's touchdown on the runway.
- The aircraft was not properly aligned with the runway during the initial approach attempt.
- The application of engine power during the landing roll contributed to the inability to stop before the runway end.