What happened
On the evening of September 2015, a Piper PA-31-350, registered as C-FXLO, departed from Thompson Airport in Manitoba under instrument flight rules. The flight, operated by Keystone Air Service Ltd., was bound for Winnipeg/James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. On board the aircraft were two pilots and six passengers.
Shortly after the aircraft rotated from Runway 06, both engines experienced a simultaneous loss of power. The crew attempted to fly the aircraft back toward the departure airport, but the loss of thrust prevented the plane from maintaining its altitude. As the descent continued, the crew extended the landing gear and prepared for an emergency landing. To avoid oncoming vehicles on a highway located southwest of the airport, the pilot executed the forced landing in a wooded area near the runway threshold, approximately 700 metres south of Runway 06.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sudden loss of power in both engines during the initial climb phase. Following the impact, the aircraft's emergency locator transmitter activated, and no fire was reported at the scene. Emergency responders were notified via a 911 call and through the Thompson flight service station. Initial aid was provided by Manitoba Department of Justice sheriffs after a member of the crew signaled them from the highway.
Findings
- The aircraft occupants sustained varying serious injuries during the impact.
- The primary cause of the engine failure was the use of incorrect fuel type.