A small plane carrying Rio Tinto workers has crashed on its way to a diamond mine in Canada, “resulting in fatalities”.
The mining giant confirmed a small plane was carrying “a number of our people” before it went down near Fort Smith, in the country’s Northwest Territories.
The number of people on board and whether any Australians were killed is still being assessed.
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“I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who have been affected by this tragedy,” Rio Tinto’s chief executive Jakob Stausholm said.
“As a company we are absolutely devastated by this news and offering our full support to our people and the community who are grieving today.”
Stausholm said the British-Australian multinational is working with authorities as they assess what caused the tragedy.
The plane was headed for Rio Tinto’s Diavik Diamond Mine before it went down.
RJ Simpson, premier of the Northwest Territories, issued a statement mourning those killed in the crash.
“It is with a heavy heart that I express my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who were aboard the Northwestern Air flight that crashed outside of Fort Smith,” Simpson said.
“The impact of this incident is felt across the territory.
“The people we lost were not just passengers on a flight, they were neighbours, colleagues, friends, and loved ones.
“Their stories and contributions to our communities will not be forgotten.”
Chief coroner of Northwest Territories Garth Eggenberger confirmed there were fatalities.
Further details are expected once next of kin have been notified.
Crash investigation
Three Royal Canadian Air Force squadrons supported search and rescue efforts for the aircraft, which was found near the Slave River after it lost contact shortly after take-off near Fort Smith, Canadian Armed Forces spokesperson Maxime Cliche said.
A team of investigators has been deployed to look into the accident involving a BAE Jetstream aircraft, Canada’s Transportation Safety Board said, adding that it was gathering information.
Northwestern Air Lease, the plane’s registered owner, said on its website it has two types of BAE Jetstreams in its fleet, both able to carry 19 passengers.
The crash comes a day after three people were killed and four others seriously injured in a helicopter crash in neighbouring British Columbia.
– With Reuters
