Last week, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) released their report on a plane crash involving a private De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver in Campbell River.
The incident took place near the Campbell River Airport on September 20th, 2023.
The plane, operated by Sealand Aviation Ltd., was performing a local flight with two pilots on board. During a power-off stall exercise conducted at approximately 4,000 feet, the aircraft encountered difficulties maintaining altitude.
The crew initiated a forced landing, which resulted in a collision with terrain in a heavily forested area, approximately 18 kilometres south-southeast of Campbell River, according to the TSB.
The aircraft’s emergency locator transmitter activated, allowing the crew to exit the plane without external assistance.
Comox Valley RCMP and a 442 Squadron Cormorant helicopter were dispatched to the scene shortly after the crash was reported.
They successfully located the plane in a wooded area near Wolf Lake and assisted the plane’s occupants, who were subsequently airlifted to hospital for medical attention.
There injuries were considered minor. The aircraft, however, sustained substantial damage, though there was no post-crash fire.
Related: Investigation underway into plane crash on Vancouver Island that left two injured
The TSB’s investigation highlighted issues with permits and maintenance/ technical records.
While the report aimed to enhance transportation safety, it clarified that the investigation’s purpose was not to assign fault or determine legal liability. The report also emphasized that it was not intended for use in legal, disciplinary, or other proceedings.
Preliminary findings suggest that a problem with the propeller system may have contributed to the aircraft’s inability to maintain altitude.
In the report, the TSB reminded aircraft owners and operators of the importance of proper maintenance record-keeping to ensure aircraft airworthiness and compliance with operational permits.
Additionally, it stressed that any modifications to aircraft must receive prior approval before flight.
The full report can be read here.
