The crash of a Cessna
Grand Carvan, in service for Wasaya Airways, has resulted in the
loss of seven people from Summer Beaver, Ontario, Canada, as well
as the pilot of the aircraft.
The crash occured Thursday night and weather (thunderstorms) has
been suggested as a possible factor in the accident. The 11 seat,
single engine turboprop went down about an hour after takeoff in an
area some 300 miles North of Thunder Bay, Ontario. The flight
left Pickle Lake, Ontario and was heading to Nibinamik First Nation
(Summer Beaver).
The Nibinamik deputy chief, chief negotiator, and two
councillors, as well as a woman, her grandson and the pilot
were among those listed as killed in the crash. The eight people
ranged in age from seven to 67. Only the native community's chief
and one councillor remain alive in the wake of this tragedy.
According to Canda's TSB, Wasaya Airways has been investigated
for 27 reportable incidents since 1997. These records indicate that
seven of these incidents were categorized as accidents, and
included runway overshoots and several crashes.
Transport Minister Statement on Wasaya Accident
Transport Minister David
Collenette released the following statement concerning the
scheduled Wasaya Airlines Flight 125, which crashed near Summer
Beaver, north-west of Moosonee, Ontario:
"On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would first like to
convey my condolences to the families of the eight people killed in
this tragic accident.
"Transport Canada takes all transportation accidents seriously
and we are co-operating fully with the Transportation Safety Board
(TSB) in its investigation of this tragic accident. The department
has appointed a Ministerial Observer who will keep me informed of
the progress of TSB investigations.
"In addition, as a standard response to this type of accident,
the department will be conducting a special purpose audit of this
company to verify that it continues to comply with all aspects of
Canadian Aviation Regulations and the conditions of its Air
Operator Certificate."
"Any safety deficiencies identified through the TSB's
investigation or Transport Canada's audit will be addressed
immediately."
"Safety is Transport Canada's top priority. We will continue to
work with the Transportation Safety Board to do all we can to
maintain and enhance the safety of Canada's air sector."