What happened
During a scheduled firefighting mission, a pilot was preparing to depart from Rainbow Lake for High Level. While the aircraft was performing its takeoff roll and had reached a speed of 90 knots, the aircraft experienced a loss of power in one of its engines. In response to the engine failure, the pilot initiated a rejected takeoff and jettisoned the load of fire retardant.
Despite the attempt to abort the takeoff, the aircraft could not come to a halt within the available runway length. The aircraft continued down the strip, rolling for approximately 1,200 feet before colliding with a drainage ditch. The impact caused the aircraft to come to a stop, resulting in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair. The pilot, who was the only person on board, sustained serious injuries during the incident.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was the loss of power in one engine during the takeoff phase.