On September 22, 1989, a Piper PA-31 Cheyenne (registration C-GBDH) operated by Aklak Air was involved in an aviation accident near Sachs Harbour, Canada during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot encountered insufficient visibility due to fog while on final approach, leading to the aircraft striking a lake short of the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft crashed into a lake during its final approach to Sachs Harbour Airport due to fog-related visibility issues, resulting in no survivors.
What happened
During the final approach phase of flight to Sachs Harbour Airport, an aircraft struck a body of water approximately 600 meters before reaching the runway. The incident occurred while the pilot was navigating through heavy fog, which significantly restricted visibility during the descent.
The impact with the lake resulted in a total of five fatalities, with no other occupants surviving the crash. The wreckage was located in the vicinity of the airport approach path.
Findings
Investigations into the accident indicate that the primary factor contributing to the crash was limited visibility caused by fog during the landing sequence.
Probable cause
The pilot encountered insufficient visibility due to fog while on final approach, leading to the aircraft striking a lake short of the runway.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Sept 1989 Piper PA-31 Cheyenne accident near Sachs Harbour, Canada?
An aircraft crashed into a lake during its final approach to Sachs Harbour Airport due to fog-related visibility issues, resulting in no survivors.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Sept 1989 Piper PA-31 Cheyenne accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Sept 1989 involved a Piper PA-31 Cheyenne, registration C-GBDH, operated by Aklak Air, at Sachs Harbour, Canada.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot encountered insufficient visibility due to fog while on final approach, leading to the aircraft striking a lake short of the runway.
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