What happened
On a flight operating under visual flight rules from a logging camp in Bear Valley, British Columbia, to Tsay Keh, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain encountered severe weather conditions. The aircraft entered an area characterized by heavy snowfall and significantly diminished visibility.
In an effort to re-establish visual contact with the terrain, the pilot performed a 180-degree turn. However, shortly after the maneuver was completed, at approximately 1055 Pacific standard time, the aircraft struck the ice covering the Peace Reach Arm of Williston Lake.
Findings
- The aircraft was destroyed upon impact with the ice.
- The pilot, who was the only person on board, sustained serious injuries.
- Loss of visual references due to heavy snow was the primary factor leading to the collision.