Two Dead After Helicopter Crash on B.C.’s West Coast

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is investigating after a helicopter crashed near Knight Inlet on British Columbia’s West Coast Tuesday morning, killing two people and leaving one survivor. The aircraft was being used for forestry operations when it went down.

West Coast Helicopters Confirms Fatal Crash

West Coast Helicopters said in a social media post that the aircraft involved was a Hughes 500 operating in Loughborough Inlet for forestry work.

According to the company, the helicopter was working with a CFMG crew when it crashed at about 6:15 a.m. with three people on board.

One Survivor, Two People Dead

West Coast Helicopters said there was one survivor and two fatalities.

The company identified one of the people who died as Riley Browne, a pilot with West Coast Helicopters. It also said a member of the CFMG forestry crew did not survive.

Forestry Company Has Not Publicly Commented

CFMG, the forestry company connected to the operation, has not publicly released details about the crew member who died.

The identity of the surviving person has also not been made public.

Tribute to Riley Browne

West Coast Helicopters described Browne as a close friend and respected pilot to everyone who worked with him.

The company said he began his flying career with West Coast Helicopters in 2021 and became one of the pillars of the organization.

In its tribute, the company said Browne was always smiling, eager to help and deeply loved by his colleagues.

Port McNeill Community Mourns

West Coast Helicopters also offered condolences to Browne’s family, describing them as close-knit and well known in the Port McNeill community.

The company said Browne would not be forgotten and called his death a heartbreaking loss for everyone who knew him.

Safety Investigation Underway

The Transportation Safety Board is now examining the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Investigators will look at factors such as the aircraft, the flight operation, weather conditions, maintenance history, terrain and any other details that may help determine what happened.

The helicopter crash near Knight Inlet has left two people dead and one survivor after a Hughes 500 went down during forestry operations in Loughborough Inlet.

West Coast Helicopters is mourning the loss of pilot Riley Browne, while the forestry community also grieves the death of a CFMG crew member.

With the Transportation Safety Board now investigating, more information is expected as officials work to determine the cause of the crash.