What happened
On 2 May 2025, an Airbus AS350B helicopter, operated by Horizon Helicopters Ltd., was performing training maneuvers near Whitehorse/Erik Nielsen International Airport (CYXY) in the Yukon. The flight was positioned in a valley clearing roughly 5.5 nautical miles east of the airport.
After approximately one hour of various training exercises, the crew began a series of simulated engine failure maneuvers, known as autorotations, targeting a large clearing at the bottom of the valley. During these maneuvers, the aircraft did not make contact with the ground, as recoveries were completed prior to touchdown. However, during the fourth attempt, the helicopter struck the ground. The impact resulted in one fatality, involving the trainee pilot. The training pilot sustained minor injuries but was able to leave the wreckage and contact the company via satellite phone.
The investigation
The TSB conducted a Class 4 investigation into the crash. This type of investigation is limited in scope and focuses on the immediate circumstances of the event.