What happened
During a night solo training exercise at Fort McLeod Airfield, the pilot was on final approach for landing. The aircraft involved was an RCAF Anson. While attempting to land, this airplane collided with a second RCAF Anson registered FP719. The second aircraft was also engaged in a local solo training sortie and was carrying one pilot.
Following the mid-air collision, both airplanes inverted and crashed into a field located near the airport. The impact resulted in the deaths of both pilots.
Findings
The investigation concluded that the air traffic controller on duty acted negligently by permitting takeoffs and landings without knowing the precise location of an aircraft that had previously been given landing clearance. Despite having prior knowledge of that aircraft's position, the controller allowed other operations to proceed, which might have been safe if the location had been confirmed.
Additionally, the findings noted that the pilot failed to identify Lac Burcher, whose electrical systems had apparently failed. The pilot made no effort to warn the Control Officer using a flashlight.