Mishall RehmanLast week Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel recovered the CH-147 Chinook helicopter that went down in the Ottawa River in June.
Contracted companies supported military personnel in recovering the helicopter.
“Residents will see increased marine and shore activity on the Ottawa River over the coming days and are asked to keep clear of the recovery site. The accident, and the crash site, are part of an ongoing investigation by the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Directorate of Flight Safety,” stated a Public Service Announcement from the CAF.
According to the PSA, the aircraft was “raised to the surface with support barges” and lifted using a crane.
The aircraft will be assessed as part of the ongoing Directorate of Flight Safety investigation.
“All efforts will be made to ensure that disruption to the community will be kept to a minimum. The Royal Canadian Air Force and Garrison Petawawa are grateful for the support and understanding of the community during this complex recovery operation,” added the PSA.
Contamination Contained in Ottawa River
According to the CAF, the military implemented a spill containment response “in the form of booms.”
“Small amounts of product released from the helicopter have been noted in the water within the containment area and have been removed by the consultant contracted to manage any site contamination. At this point, there is no evidence of any environmental contamination along the riverbank or the beach,” added the PSA.
The military plans to continue monitoring the area for any contamination from the accident or the recovery.
Devastating Accident Impacts Community
On June 20, members of 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron were submerged in the Ottawa River after their CH-147F Chinook crashed.
Two members were found and brought ashore. Sadly, the remaining two lost their lives in the crash. The crash took place during a night training flight. The military’s investigation is currently ongoing.
