Communiqués

TSB # A05/2006

THE TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD OF CANADA DETERMINES THAT MODIFICATIONS TO A DISPLAY MANOEUVRE CAUSED THE IN-FLIGHT COLLISION AT AN AIR SHOW IN MOOSE JAW IN JULY 2005

(Gatineau, Quebec, April 6, 2006) - The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) today released its final report (A05C0123) into the in-flight collision between two biplane aircraft participating in the Saskatchewan Air Show in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, on July 10, 2005.

The investigation revealed that the collision occurred as the aircraft were executing a modified version of the Dairy Turn, a manoeuvre originally conceived to create the illusion of a near collision for spectators. The display involved three biplanes that were used to perform a simulated dogfight. The biplanes would execute crosses that were planned to ensure safe separation. The modified manoeuvre did not ensure safe execution.

On July 10, 2005, three United States-registered aircraft were engaged in a simulated dogfighting display at Moose Jaw/Air Vice Marshal C.M. McEwen Airport as part of the Saskatchewan Air Show. The display team, called the Masters of Disaster, consisted of three biplane aircraft (a Waco, a Wolf-Samson and a Pitts Special). A ground display featuring a jet-powered truck was part of the act. The three biplanes were performing a series of crosses and chases in a simulated dogfight scenario. As the jet-powered truck moved into position on the show line, the three biplanes entered a manoeuvre in preparation for a series of crosses centred on the truck. During the manoeuvre, the Waco and the Wolf-Samson collided, caught fire and crashed. Both pilots were killed at impact, and both aircraft were destroyed. All debris fell away from the crowd toward the outer runway. Immediate implementation of emergency procedures kept spectators from moving toward the burning wreckage.

The TSB is an independent agency that investigates marine, pipeline, railway and aviation transportation occurrences. Its sole aim is the advancement of transportation safety. It is not the function of the Board to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability.

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The public report, A05C0123, is also available on this site.