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Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Trenton and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) declared the search for two people onboard a Robinson R66 helicopter that went missing between Sudbury and Kapuskasing, Ont., a major search and rescue (SAR) operation on March 9.
As of March 10, the RCAF and its SAR partners are continuing the search. The major SAR operation is being coordinated out of Timmins Victor M. Power Airport, in Timmins, Ont.
The operation has identified several leads that are being followed up, including various cell phone towers that picked up the signal of the phone onboard the helicopter during its flight. This has enabled SAR personnel to reduce the search area and focus on key points.
The aircraft involved in the search are: two CC-130 Hercules aircraft and two CH-146 Griffon helicopters from 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron, based out of 8 Wing Trenton; a CC-130 Hercules from 435 Transport and Rescue Squadron, based out of 17 Wing Winnipeg; a CH-146 Griffon helicopter from 439 Combat Support Squadron, based out of 3 Wing Bagotville; a CP-140 Aurora from 405 Long Range Patrol Squadron, based out of 14 Wing Greenwood; a Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) helicopter; and a Civilian Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA) aircraft.
Quick Facts
- The missing helicopter is a grey Robinson R66 with white and orange trim. The helicopter departed Sudbury on March 4
- Members of the public are encouraged to call 705-268-2608 ext. 234 if they have seen a helicopter matching the description, or if they see signs of a possible crash site
- We would like to remind everyone between Sudbury and Kapuskasing that the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in an active search area is heavily restricted, as it significantly affects our ability to safely carry out our SAR mission
- RCAF crews are well-trained to conduct searches for aircraft and work with partner agencies during searches. The RCAF is responsible for aeronautical search and rescue in Canada
- CASARA personnel are well-prepared to assist RCAF crews thanks to their local knowledge and expertise as private pilots
