Squamish Helicopter Crash Renews Concern Over B.C. Flight Safety

A large work helicopter crashed near Henriette Dam west of Squamish on October 7, 2025, leaving the pilot in critical condition and renewing concern about flying safety around Vancouver. The aircraft had been carrying maintenance equipment for the Woodfibre LNG site when it went down in steep terrain above the dam.

Emergency crews responded shortly after 9:30 a.m., though some local reports placed the time closer to 10:45 a.m. The pilot, believed to be the only person onboard, was airlifted to a Vancouver hospital. No structural concerns have been reported at Henriette Dam, according to officials.

What We Know About the Squamish Helicopter Crash

The Squamish helicopter crash occurred during a maintenance flight supporting the Woodfibre LNG project. The aircraft — a large industrial helicopter used for heavy lifting in remote areas — was moving equipment and supplies when the incident occurred.

Investigators from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) are now reviewing flight logs, maintenance history, and weather data. The pilot’s name has not been released. Woodfibre LNG stated its “first concern is the safety and well-being of anyone working with us,” and confirmed full cooperation with investigators.

Two Other Fatal Crashes Near Vancouver Raise Safety Questions

On May 24, 2024, a small fixed-wing plane crashed roughly 12 nautical miles southwest of Squamish, killing two people. Investigators determined that the aircraft had likely flown into rising terrain near Howe Sound on a clear day with good visibility.

Just weeks later, on June 8, 2024, a Harbour Air seaplane collided with a pleasure boat during takeoff in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour. Two people on the boat were hospitalized, and both vessels sustained significant damage. It was only the third recorded seaplane–boat collision in B.C. in the past 25 years.

These incidents show how unpredictable local airspace can be. Between Vancouver and Whistler, shifting winds, narrow flight paths, and shared marine-air routes leave little margin for error — even on days that look ideal for flying.

3 Crashes? Is It Really Safe to Fly Around Vancouver?

For many Vancouver residents, this latest crash hits close to home. Helicopters and floatplanes pass overhead daily, connecting the city to Squamish, Whistler, and remote coastal communities. But the same dramatic geography that defines the region also creates dangerous conditions.

Strong winds funnel through Howe Sound, clouds form suddenly along the peaks, and pilots often fly through tight valleys with minimal emergency landing options. Even experienced crews face unpredictable challenges that can change in seconds.

Flying across the Lower Mainland remains statistically safe — but these incidents, including the Squamish helicopter crash, have sparked new concern about whether oversight and communication systems are keeping pace with increasing traffic.

What Investigators Are Looking for After the Squamish Helicopter Crash

The TSB is leading the investigation and will collect evidence from the crash site, examine the helicopter’s maintenance records, and review communications between the pilot and ground teams. Officials expect preliminary findings in the coming months.

The Squamish Nation has confirmed awareness of the incident and is monitoring developments. For now, the focus remains on the pilot’s recovery and on whether this tragedy will drive improvements in aviation safety across B.C.’s complex and busy skies.