What happened
On a scheduled instrument flight rules departure from Thompson Airport, Manitoba, a Piper PA-31-350, registered as C-FXLO, experienced a critical mechanical failure. Shortly after the aircraft rotated from Runway 06, both engines suffered a simultaneous loss of power. The flight, operated by Keystone Air Service Ltd., was intended for Winnipeg/James Armstrong Richardson International Airport and was carrying a total of 8 people, including 2 pilots and 6 passengers.
Following the loss of engine performance, the crew attempted to execute a return to the departure airport. However, the aircraft could not sustain its flight altitude. In preparation for an emergency descent, the landing gear was deployed. To avoid vehicles on the nearby highway, the crew performed a forced landing in a wooded area located roughly 700 metres south of the Runway 06 threshold.
While the impact resulted in varying serious injuries for the occupants, all 8 individuals were able to evacuate the wreckage. There was no fire following the impact, and the emergency locator transmitter functioned as intended. Emergency responders were alerted via a 911 call and the Thompson flight service station, with initial aid provided by Manitoba Department of Justice sheriffs after a crew member signaled them from the highway.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was the simultaneous loss of power in both engines immediately following takeoff.