Occurrence
On 18 October 2021 at 1637 Pacific Daylight Time, a float-equipped de Havilland DHC-2 MK. I (Beaver) aircraft operated by Tofino Air and a water taxi known as the Rocky Pass collided in the vicinity of the First Street dock in the Tofino harbour, British Columbia.
Injuries and Damage
The aircraft was substantially damaged. Within 2 minutes and 30 seconds of the collision, it became inverted with only the floats above the water surface. The 5 passengers and pilot on board the aircraft were able to safely egress. Three of the aircraft passengers received minor injuries. The vessel sustained minor damage, and 1 passenger on it received minor injuries. There was no pollution.
Aftermath
The emergency locator transmitter (ELT) on the aircraft did not transmit a signal. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada conducted a class 3 investigation, focusing on a limited number of safety issues. Following the occurrence, a Marine Transportation Safety Letter (01/22) regarding safe speed for vessels in Tofino Harbour was issued on 2022-02-08.