News release

Today, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) released its investigation report (A23W0091) into the fatal collision with terrain involving a Piper PA-32R aircraft near Calgary, Alberta.

On July 28, 2023, the privately registered aircraft departed Calgary/Springbank Airport, Alberta on a visual flight rules flight to Salmon Arm, British Columbia, with one pilot and five passengers on board. Approximately 15 minutes into the flight, the aircraft collided with a mountain and was destroyed, fatally injuring all those on board.

Weather analysis conducted during the investigation indicated that clouds near the occurrence site were likely low, reducing visibility. The pilot’s decision to make the flight was influenced by an incomplete understanding of the weather, familiarity with the route, time pressure, and a personal desire to complete the flight. When the pilot encountered clouds and reduced visibility, for unknown reasons, he decided to continue the flight toward the destination, and, subsequently, the aircraft collided with terrain in the cruise attitude.

If pilots don’t practice instrument flying skills regularly, there is a risk that they may not be able to maintain aircraft control and navigate accurately should they inadvertently encounter weather conditions requiring reference to their instruments. Also, if pilots do not complete mountain flying training, there is a risk that they will not be adequately prepared for the conditions encountered when flying over mountainous terrain.

See the investigation page for more information.