Occurrence
On 28 July 2023, a Piper PA-32R departed Springbank Airport (CYBW), Alberta for Salmon Arm (CZAM), British Columbia under visual flight rules. The aircraft carried one pilot and five passengers. Late that evening, the aircraft was reported overdue. An overflying aircraft detected an emergency locator transmitter signal near Bow Valley Provincial Park in Kananaskis, Alberta.
Wreckage and Response
Search and rescue teams located the aircraft on the morning of 29 July on the east slope of Mount McGillivray, Alberta. The aircraft was destroyed and a post-impact fire occurred. All six occupants — the pilot and five passengers — sustained fatal injuries.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada conducted a class 3 investigation into the occurrence. Class 3 investigations focus on a limited number of safety issues and may issue recommendations. The investigation is expected to be completed within 450 days. No probable cause has been stated at this stage.