In a startling incident at Comox Valley Airport Wednesday, a WestJet flight destined for Edmonton collided with a parked military aircraft from 19 Wing Comox.
The incident, which took place during taxing for departure, has raised questions about air traffic management and safety protocols at the bustling airport.
WestJet Flight WS346, scheduled to travel from Comox to Edmonton, was preparing for takeoff when it unexpectedly made contact with the stationary military aircraft.
Despite the severity of the collision, WestJet reported that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated from the aircraft, with no injuries reported.
Crazy huh! Happy we all got off safely as this could have been much worse. At least we can be one of the rare few who can say we’ve survived a plane crash! pic.twitter.com/3XRNl43Dtv
— Andre Gagne (@EarthToAndre) August 9, 2023
The Canadian airline released a statement acknowledging the incident, explaining that a portion of the WestJet plane’s wing had broken off upon impact with the military aircraft.
The parked military aircraft, a CC-130 Hercules, suffered a noticeable gouge, further underscoring the force of the collision.
The circumstances leading to the collision are still under investigation.
The CC-130 Hercules was originally scheduled to perform a fly-past during the 31st annual Peacekeepers Memorial Parade at Esquimalt Memorial Park.
However, due to the damages sustained in the collision, this portion of the ceremonial event had to be called off, disappointing attendees who were anticipating the tribute.
