Saskatchewan has decided to pause operations of three bird dog planes used in wildfire missions following a tragic incident involving a similar aircraft model in the Northwest Territories. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency announced that a full review of the three Turbo Commander 690 planes is underway, driven by concerns for safety and reliability.
The decision comes after a fatal crash on June 24 near Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, which is located west of Yellowknife. In this incident, three individuals lost their lives when the aircraft experienced an in-flight breakup before crashing to the ground. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has been investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Marlo Pritchard, president and fire commissioner of the Saskatchewan safety agency, emphasized the commitment to maintaining safety for pilots, crews, and the public. He stated, “The safety of our pilots, crews and the public is our highest priority.” He reassured that while the bird dog aircraft play a crucial role in wildfire response operations, the agency is opting for a proactive approach to ensure their ongoing safety.
As part of this precautionary measure, Saskatchewan maintains four bird dog planes that are still operational and available to support wildfire suppression activities across the province. A bird dog plane serves as an airborne command center, facilitating the coordination of firefighting operations in threatened areas.
Fort Simpson, where the crash occurred, has been under an evacuation order since June 28 due to a nearby threatening wildfire. The severity of this situation emphasizes the need for reliable and safe aerial firefighting resources. This is particularly critical as local fire management efforts are intensified amid the ongoing wildfire crisis.
Buffalo Airways, the operator of the ill-fated Turbo Commander 690, identified the deceased pilot as Robert MacLeod. His career spanned 25 years, during which he served as a bird dog captain for Buffalo Airways over the last three seasons. Additionally, firefighters Olivier Lamy and Ryan Beck were also confirmed as casualties in the crash, highlighting the tragic loss of life associated with the incident.
In light of these developments, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency will closely monitor the investigation's progress and is committed to returning the aircraft only after conducting all necessary inspections and addressing any required follow-up actions.
The situation continues to evolve as the province strives to safeguard both its aerial firefighting capabilities and the safety of personnel involved in combating wildfires.
