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."

FMI: www.wasaya.com, www.tc.gc.ca