On July 6, 2025, a Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited Bell 206L-4, C-GKVX operated by Commercially registered was involved in an aviation accident near Hespero/Safron Residence Heliport (CTS6), Alberta, CA. This summary draws on records from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB).
On 6 July 2025, a Bell 206L-4 helicopter conducting a recreational flight from Panther River Lodge, Alberta, to Hespero/Safron Residence Heliport impacted the ground during a second approach. The skid gear collapsed, the helicopter was significantly damaged, and the pilot was seriously injured while the passenger sustained fatal injuries.
Occurrence
On 6 July 2025, a commercially owned Bell Textron Inc. 206L-4 helicopter was conducting a recreational flight from Panther River Lodge, Alberta, to the Hespero/Safron Residence Heliport with the pilot and one passenger on board. As the helicopter arrived at its destination, the pilot conducted an approach to touchdown on the grass strip attached to the heliport. The pilot then lifted off and commenced a second approach to the same spot. During the second approach, the helicopter impacted the ground, and the skid gear collapsed. The aircraft emergency locator transmitter activated. The helicopter was significantly damaged and there was no post-accident fire. The pilot was seriously injured, and the passenger received fatal injuries.
Investigation
This occurrence is classified as a Class 4 investigation. Class 4 investigations are limited in scope, and while the final reports may contain limited analysis, they do not contain findings or recommendations. Class 4 investigations are generally completed within 220 days.