The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has released its investigation report into the tragic plane crash that claimed six lives near Calgary on July 28, 2023.
The incident involved a Piper PA-32R aircraft departing from Calgary/Springbank Airport on a flight to Salmon Arm, British Columbia. Approximately 15 minutes into the journey, the aircraft collided with a mountain, resulting in its destruction and the fatal injuries of the pilot and five passengers.
The TSB’s investigation revealed that weather conditions likely played a significant role in the crash, with low clouds reducing visibility near the site. Factors influencing the pilot's decision to continue the flight included an incomplete understanding of the weather, familiarity with the route, time pressure, and a desire to complete the journey. When the pilot encountered reduced visibility, he proceeded, leading to the collision with terrain while the aircraft was in a cruise attitude.
The report underlined the importance of regular instrument flying practice and mountain flying training to ensure pilots are adequately prepared for challenging conditions. Without these, pilots struggle to maintain control and navigate effectively in adverse weather.
Search and rescue teams located the wreckage on the east slope of Mount McGillivray the morning after the crash, following signals from the aircraft’s emergency locator transmitter. All six occupants were fatally injured, and a post-impact fire consumed the aircraft.
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