
Into the Abyss - Snap Classic
Apr 17, 2025
Carol Shaben, journalist and author of "Into the Abyss," shares a gripping tale inspired by her father's survival of the Wapiti Flight 402 crash. Joined by Erik Vogel, the young pilot, they delve into the chaos of the crash in Northern Canada, revealing emotional struggles and the bonds formed by survivors. The podcast explores survival against freezing temperatures, the weight of guilt, and the powerful connections forged in moments of despair. Through their stories, listeners witness a harrowing journey of loss, resilience, and the extraordinary will to endure.
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Icy Flight Ends in Crash
- Pilot Eric Vogel flew into severe icing with inoperable de-icing.
- The plane crashed after hitting trees due to misjudged altitude and ice weight.
Fire Saves Survivors' Lives
- The crash survivors, including pilot and politician, gathered around a fire in freezing snow.
- A fire they built was critical to their survival through the night.
Unsafe Airline Protected by Influence
- Wapiti Airline was known for unsafe practices like pushing weather limits.
- Their protection from shutdown allowed dangerous operations to continue unabated.

