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19 July 2003, Captain Stone, the terminal controller, and Master Corporal Earle, the Precision Approach Radar (PAR) controller, were on duty at 8 Wing Trenton. While controlling, they acknowledged a MAYDAY call from the pilot of a light civilian aircraft in the vicinity of Rice Lake, at an altitude of 7,500-feet and descending. The aircraft had experienced total engine failure, with a sheared prop and broken canopy, a situation that appeared desperate for the pilot and his 8-year-old son. The aircraft's altitude continued to decrease and time became the enemy. The closest airport was Peterborough, approximately 15 miles northeast of his position. Quickly but calmly, Captain Stone relayed directions and relevant airport information as well as several alternate landing sites to the pilot, but the stricken aircraft was unable to travel the required distances. Master Corporal Earle quickly contacted the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) to coordinate, while simultaneously providing assistance to the terminal controller by searching local maps and charts for a possible landing site. Quickly, realizing that radio contact would soon be lost as the aircraft continued descent, Captain Stone intuitively asked the pilot if he had a cell phone and obtained the number. Both controllers feverishly studied maps of the area and, in a final desperate attempt, offered directions to a grassy area, which was much closer than the airfield. In the final seconds before both communications and radar contact were lost, the pilot reported he had the site visual and declared his intention to attempt an emergency landing. The approximate position was swiftly relayed by the PAR controller to the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) for deployment of Search and Rescue aircraft. However, after several minutes and numerous failed connection attempts, Captain Stone was finally able to contact the pilot on his cell phone and ascertain that both of the occupants had miraculously escaped without any injuries. Master Corporal Earle continually kept RCC informed of all emergency details. The landowner provided an address to the pilot and this information was swiftly passed through RCC to local police authorities who, in turn, dispatched a unit to the forced landing site. In the performance of his duties, Captain Stone displayed not only a calm demeanour in a highly stressful situation, but also a superb spirit of initiative, leadership, and professional expertise. Master Corporal Earle's stellar response in coordinating the efforts to assist an aircraft in distress was prompt and professional. His timely dissemination of the emergency information to RCC ensured they were well informed and capable of responding without delay. The regard for aviation safety displayed by both Captain Stone and Master Corporal Earle is a credit to the occupation and the Canadian Forces equally. Their actions could well have saved lives and they are commended for their professionalism and teamwork. Captain Stone serves with 8 ATC while Master Corporal Earle serves with 8 ACCS, 8 Wing Trenton. |
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