What happened
On 5 July 2018, a Piper PA-28-140 was conducting a local sightseeing flight departing from Runway 29 at the Sechelt Aerodrome in British Columbia. The aircraft was operated privately and was carrying a pilot and three passengers at the time of the accident. During the departure, weather conditions were characterized by variable and gusty winds originating primarily from the west.
Shortly after leaving the runway, the aircraft exhibited a low rate of climb. As the plane crossed the Chapman Creek ravine, located just beyond the departure end of the runway, it ceased to gain altitude and struck trees on the opposite side of the ravine. The accident resulted in one fatality for the pilot and three minor injuries for the passengers.
The investigation
The TSB conducted a Class 4 investigation into the collision. The inquiry focused on the aircraft's performance during the initial climb phase and the environmental conditions present during the departure from Sechelt Aerodrome.