Fatal helicopter crash during wildfire suppression in Northwest Territories

Casualties unknown • Fort Good Hope Airport (CYGH), Northwest Territories, 0.6 NM ENE, CA

A Bell 212 helicopter experienced a catastrophic rotor failure shortly after takeoff near Fort Good Hope, resulting in a fatal crash.

What happened

On 28 June 2024, a Bell 212 helicopter, operated by Great Slave Helicopters 2018 Ltd., was engaged in wildfire suppression operations near Fort Good Hope, Northwest Territories. Following its departure from Fort Good Hope Airport (CYGH), the aircraft suffered a sudden and severe mechanical failure. A main rotor blade detached from the rotor head, which was immediately followed by the separation of the remaining blade and the rotor head from the mast. This sequence of events caused the helicopter to crash into the ground, leading to a post-impact fire.

The investigation

The TSB investigation focuses on the mechanical failure that occurred during the flight. Investigators are examining the structural integrity of the rotor system and the circumstances surrounding the separation of the rotor components from the mast.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure of the main rotor system, involving the separation of a rotor blade and the subsequent detachment of the rotor head from the mast.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2024-06-28 Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. 212 accident near Fort Good Hope Airport (CYGH), Northwest Territories, 0.6 NM ENE, CA?

A Bell 212 helicopter experienced a catastrophic rotor failure shortly after takeoff near Fort Good Hope, resulting in a fatal crash.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2024-06-28 involved a Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. 212, operated by Great Slave Helicopters 2018 Ltd., at Fort Good Hope Airport (CYGH), Northwest Territories, 0.6 NM ENE, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure of the main rotor system, involving the separation of a rotor blade and the subsequent detachment of the rotor head from the mast.

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