Air transportation safety investigation A25A0051

Table of contents

    Engine power loss and collision with water
    Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables
    Airbus Helicopters AS350 B3, C-GZNR
    Fivefinger Lake, Nova Scotia 

    The occurrence

    On 15 August 2025, an Airbus Helicopters AS350 B3, operated by the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, was conducting aerial fire suppression operations near Fivefinger Lake, Nova Scotia.

    After refilling the water bucket in the lake and lifting off, at approximately 75 feet above water, the pilot reported hearing a loud bang, followed by a loss of power. The helicopter subsequently collided with the surface of the lake and became partially submerged. The pilot sustained serious injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment.

    The TSB is investigating.

    Photos

    Figure 1. The occurrence helicopter in Fivefinger Lake, Nova Scotia, partially submerged, with one main rotor blade extending above the water surface (Source: Professional photographer from the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables)

    Class of investigation

    This is a class 4 investigation. These investigations are limited in scope, and while the final reports may contain limited analysis, they do not contain findings or recommendations. Class 4 investigations are generally completed within 220 days. For more information, see the Policy on Occurrence Classification.

    TSB investigation process

    There are 3 phases to a TSB investigation

    1. Field phase: a team of investigators examines the occurrence site and wreckage, interviews witnesses and collects pertinent information.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.