Fatal Cessna 152 terrain collision near Claresholm, Alberta

Casualties unknown • Claresholm Industrial Aerodrome (CEJ4), Alberta, CA

A single-engine aircraft crashed into terrain shortly after departing from Claresholm Industrial Airport, resulting in the death of the pilot.

What happened

On 28 August 2023, a Cessna 152 aircraft, which was privately registered, departed from the Claresholm Industrial Airport in Alberta. The flight was being conducted by AFS Aerial Photography with a single pilot on board. Shortly after the takeoff sequence, the aircraft struck the ground approximately 6,000 feet northeast of the aerodrome.

Following the impact, the aircraft's emergency locator transmitter (ELT) was triggered, sending a signal that was detected by several other aircraft flying in the area. There was no fire reported at the crash site.

The investigation

The TSB conducted a Class 4 investigation into the event. This type of investigation is limited in scope and focuses on the immediate circumstances of the occurrence.

Findings

The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident.

Probable cause

The investigation was a limited-scope Class 4 investigation and did not establish specific findings or a definitive cause for the loss of control and subsequent terrain collision.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-08-28 Cessna 152, C-GRCA accident near Claresholm Industrial Aerodrome (CEJ4), Alberta, CA?

A single-engine aircraft crashed into terrain shortly after departing from Claresholm Industrial Airport, resulting in the death of the pilot.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-08-28 involved a Cessna 152, C-GRCA, operated by AFS Aerial Photography Inc., at Claresholm Industrial Aerodrome (CEJ4), Alberta, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The investigation was a limited-scope Class 4 investigation and did not establish specific findings or a definitive cause for the loss of control and subsequent terrain collision.

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