No fatalities

Emergency Landing Incident Near Thompson Airport (CF-CZH)

Thompson, CanadaFlight

On September 29, 1977, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration CF-CZH) operated by North Coast Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Thompson, Canada in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine problems of unknown origin. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

Aircraft encountered engine issues shortly after takeoff from Thompson, forcing an emergency landing in trees 24 km southeast. Both pilots were rescued; the plane was destroyed.

Incident Overview

Shortly after departing Thompson Airport, the flight crew reported experiencing significant engine difficulties. Due to the severity of the mechanical issue, the pilots decided to abort their intended route and initiate a return to the departure point.

Loss of Control and Impact

As the aircraft attempted to regain stability, it suffered a progressive loss of both airspeed and altitude. The deteriorating flight conditions left the crew with no viable option other than attempting an emergency landing in uncontrolled terrain. The aircraft ultimately collided with trees before coming to rest approximately 24 kilometers southeast of Thompson Airport.

Aftermath and Investigation Findings

Emergency response teams successfully rescued both pilots from the wreckage. The impact resulted in catastrophic structural damage, rendering the airframe beyond repair. Official investigation findings attributed the accident to engine problems of unknown origin, with no further specific mechanical failures identified in the available source material.

Probable cause

Engine problems of unknown origin