A tragic plane crash near Deer Lake, Newfoundland, has left two people dead. The small aircraft, owned by Kisik Aerial Survey based in Delta, British Columbia, went down shortly after takeoff on Saturday evening, July 26. The accident happened near the Trans-Canada Highway, close to Deer Lake Regional Airport.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported that the crash occurred at approximately 5:35 p.m. Two people were on board: a 54-year-old male pilot and a 27-year-old male passenger. Both were pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.
Kisik Aerial Survey confirmed the crash involved one of its aircraft. The company is based at Boundary Bay Airport and operates a fleet of seven Piper multi-engine planes. The aircraft in this accident was a Piper PA-31 Navajo.
Andrew Naysmith, owner of Kisik Aerial Survey, expressed deep sorrow following the incident. He said the crash happened just minutes after the aircraft left the Deer Lake Regional Airport runway.
“We are devastated and heartbroken by this loss,” Naysmith said in a statement. “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to the families of the deceased and their loved ones.”
He added that the names of the victims would be released by official authorities when appropriate.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada has launched an investigation to determine what led to the fatal crash. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Newfoundland is also supporting the ongoing investigation.
According to preliminary reports, the aircraft went down about one kilometre south of the Deer Lake Airport. The plane was on a local flight when the incident happened. It’s not yet clear what caused the crash, but officials say more details will be shared once the investigation progresses.
As a result of the crash, the Trans-Canada Highway near Deer Lake was closed for several hours. Traffic was rerouted as emergency crews and investigators worked at the site.
Kisik Aerial Survey stated it will fully support the investigation. Naysmith said the company is committed to cooperating with all authorities to uncover what happened.
The crash has left the local community in shock. Deer Lake is a small town in western Newfoundland, and such events are rare. Residents nearby reported hearing a loud noise before first responders arrived at the scene.
Kisik Aerial Survey provides aerial mapping and surveying services. The Piper PA-31 Navajo is commonly used for such tasks due to its ability to fly at low altitudes and cover large areas. It is designed for short flights and can carry several passengers or equipment.
Plane crashes involving small aircraft are not common but do happen across Canada. The Transportation Safety Board regularly investigates such incidents to improve safety standards and prevent future accidents.
Authorities have not yet provided information on weather conditions at the time of the crash. The investigation will consider many factors, including mechanical issues, pilot actions, and environmental conditions.
The company and the families affected have asked for privacy during this difficult time. More updates are expected as the Transportation Safety Board continues its work.
This is a developing story, and officials are urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed the crash to come forward and assist with the investigation.
The loss of two lives in the Delta plane crash has prompted renewed focus on aviation safety in Canada’s private air sector. As authorities continue their inquiry, many hope for clear answers and steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
