Astar Down In Quebec?

[Bif]

Reading CADORS this morning, and though my french is rusty, it would appear that Canadian had an AS350 go down near Chibougamau? 4 occupants hurt, one seriously?

 

Hope everyone is safe and recoverring. Would like to find out more about what happened..

 

Cadors Number: 2010Q1941

 

"C-GHVD, un Aerospatiale AS-350 exploité par les Hélicoptères canadiens, effectuait un vol selon les règles de vol à vue (VFR) dans la région de Chapais/Chibougamau (CYMT). L'hélicoptère s'est écrasé à six milles nautiques au nord-ouest de Chibougamau. Les quatre occupants ont été blessés dont un grièvement. Un autre hélicoptère de la compagnie s'est rendu sur les lieux de l'accident. "

 

Roughly tranlsated:

 

C-GHVD, an Aerospatiale AS-350 operated by Canadian Helicopters, was flying under visual flight rules (VFR) in the Chapais / Chibougamau (CYMT). The helicopter crashed at six nautical miles north-west of Chibougamau. The four occupants were injured, one seriously. Another company helicopter went to the scene of the accident.

[CHL VPSafety]

Yes, CHL suffered a loss of aircraft this week. The AS350B2 was in the process of landing to avoid weather associated with a rapidly moving cold front and was caught by a severe rain shower that we believe essentially "pushed" the aircraft into the trees. The pilot has tons of experience on type. He and three passengers suffered what turned out to be minor injuries. The aircraft will be a total loss.

 

We are all very relieved that both the pilot and the passengers avoided major injury.

 

Thanks for your concern.

 

Walter Heneghan

VP, Safety & Quality

Canadian Helicopters Ltd.

[helimat]

It's a 'good' accident when all can walk away. I am glad to hear all are alright.

[twinstar_ca]

once again, walter, you take the high road and let everyone learn!!

 

very glad your pilot and his pax survived!!

 

:up:

[Elvis]

But it takes away from the "here's what I herd" Thank You Walter

[Bif]

Thanks, Walter. Good to know everyone is ok.