Occurrence
On 18 July 2024, a privately registered Cessna 421C departed from Tofino/Long Beach Airport, British Columbia, en route to Portland International Airport, Oregon, with one pilot and two passengers aboard.
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a fire in the right engine. The pilot initiated a return to the airport. During the approach, the aircraft collided with terrain on the airport grounds.
Post-Impact Fire and Evacuation
Immediately following the collision, an explosion and post-crash fire engulfed the aircraft. The emergency locator transmitter did not activate. One passenger was able to evacuate through the rear left exit. The pilot and the other passenger sustained fatal injuries. The aircraft was consumed by fire and destroyed.
Investigation
A team of investigators was deployed to the occurrence site. The investigation is classified as a Class 4 investigation, which is limited in scope and does not include findings or recommendations. Such investigations are typically completed within 220 days.