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Helijet Sikorsky S-76C++ Struck by Lightning, Sustains Substantial Damage

Sidney, British Columbia, 10 NM NE, CA

On October 24, 2023, a Sikorsky S-76C++ (helicopter), C-GXHJ operated by Helijet International Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Sidney, British Columbia, 10 NM NE, CA. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB)Primary reportUpdated 2026-10-18Data APIEditorial standards

On October 24, 2023, a Helijet Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter (C-GXHJ) was struck by lightning during cruise, entered an uncontrolled rapid descent, lost 3144 feet, and recovered. No injuries reported.

Occurrence

At 0911 Pacific Daylight Time on 24 October 2023, a Helijet International Inc. Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter, registration C-GXHJ, serial number 760774, departed Vancouver Harbour Heliport (CBC7), British Columbia, on an instrument flight rules flight to Victoria Harbour (Camel Point) Heliport (CBF7), British Columbia. The helicopter carried 2 flight crew members and 12 passengers.

During cruise flight at 4000 feet above sea level, the helicopter was struck by lightning and entered an uncontrolled rapid descent. Following a loss of 3144 feet, the captain re-established straight and level flight. The flight crew continued the flight to CBF7 and landed without further incident.

The helicopter was substantially damaged. There were no reported injuries.

Weather

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Oct 2023 Sikorsky S-76C++ (helicopter), C-GXHJ accident near Sidney, British Columbia, 10 NM NE, CA?

On October 24, 2023, a Helijet Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter (C-GXHJ) was struck by lightning during cruise, entered an uncontrolled rapid descent, lost 3144 feet, and recovered. No injuries reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Oct 2023 Sikorsky S-76C++ (helicopter), C-GXHJ accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Oct 2023 involved a Sikorsky S-76C++ (helicopter), C-GXHJ, operated by Helijet International Inc., at Sidney, British Columbia, 10 NM NE, CA.

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