A close call was in store as a mechanical failure forced a plane to make a belly landing at Powell River airport, Thursday, May 28.
Three people were onboard the four-seater Model-PA 30 dual prop Piper Twin Comanche when the pilot made an emergency landing after the plane’s landing gear failed to descend at about 2:20 pm.
Sergeant Kevin Day of the Powell River RCMP said the 79-year-old male pilot, his 63-year-old male co-pilot and the 63-year-old female passenger all escaped the plane with minor injuries. “All three occupants of the plane were treated at the scene by BC Ambulance and were not taken to hospital,” said Day. “Both males are Victoria residents, while the female resides in Powell River.”
The investigation revealed that the cause of the accident appears to have been a possible landing gear malfunction, added Day.
The plane sustained damage to the underbelly and both propellers, but the cabin remained structurally intact. Transportation Safety Board of Canada was notified and is conducting an investigation, he said.
Emergency first responders from Powell River Fire Rescue, RCMP and BC Ambulance Service attended the scene and city workers were brought in to assist with the removal of the plane.
A front-end loader hoisted the crippled aircraft off the airport runway and placed it near the apron.
