The TSB has completed this investigation. The report was published on 13 May 2026.
Lightning strike and loss of control
Helijet International Inc.
Sikorsky S-76C++ (helicopter), C-GXHJ
Sidney, British Columbia, 10 NM NE
The occurrence
At 0911 Pacific Daylight Time on 24 October 2023, the Helijet International Inc. Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter (registration C-GXHJ, serial number 760774) departed Vancouver Harbour Heliport (CBC7), British Columbia, on an instrument flight rules flight to Victoria Harbour (Camel Point) Heliport (CBF7), British Columbia, with 2 flight crew members and 12 passengers on board. During cruise flight at 4000 feet above sea level, the helicopter was struck by lightning and entered an uncontrolled rapid descent. Following a loss of 3144 feet, the captain re-established straight and level flight. The flight crew continued the flight to CBF7 and landed without further incident. There were no reported injuries. The helicopter was substantially damaged.
Media materials
Investigation information
Photos
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Class of investigation
This is a class 3 investigation. These investigations analyze a small number of safety issues, and may result in recommendations. Class 3 investigations are generally completed within 450 days. For more information, see the Policy on Occurrence Classification.
TSB investigation process
There are 3 phases to a TSB investigation
- Field phase: a team of investigators examines the occurrence site and wreckage, interviews witnesses and collects pertinent information.
- Examination and analysis phase: the TSB reviews pertinent records, tests components of the wreckage in the lab, determines the sequence of events and identifies safety deficiencies. When safety deficiencies are suspected or confirmed, the TSB advises the appropriate authority without waiting until publication of the final report.
- Report phase: a confidential draft report is approved by the Board and sent to persons and corporations who are directly concerned by the report. They then have the opportunity to dispute or correct information they believe to be incorrect. The Board considers all representations before approving the final report, which is subsequently released to the public.
For more information, see our Investigation process page.
The TSB is an independent agency that investigates air, marine, pipeline, and rail 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.