Caribou-Watching Pilot Blamed In Fatal Crash

Thursday, October 04, 2007 at 16:47

 

 

A report detailing a fatal helicopter crash in northern Saskatchewan last year has been made public.

 

On August 13th, 2006, a chopper carrying three people slammed into Davy Lake, just south of Lake Athabasca.

 

Two people, including the pilot, were able to swim to shore, while a third man drowned.

 

According to the report, the collision occurred when the pilot turned the helicopter to get a better look at a caribou crossing the water.

 

He tried to pull the helicopter up, but apparently lost his perspective in the face of the calm waters.

 

The TSB says the pilot’s decision was made without considering the implications of his actions.

 

They say personal floatation equipment also could have assisted in the rescue of the passenger who drowned.

 

The report has been turned over to civil aviation authorities.