New rules would bring him peace
SATURNA CRASH: Husband wants gov’t to act on recommendations
A man who lost his wife and baby daughter in a 2009 seaplane crash off of Saturna Island is urging Transport Canada to adopt new safety rules recommended by the B.C. Coroners Service.
After probing 23 deaths in seaplane accidents on the B.C. coast from 2005 to 2009, the coroner Tuesday recommended 19 safety changes aimed at preventing deaths, including mandatory wearing of life-jackets and installation of plane exits.
The service’s death-review panel brought together experts from the coastal aviation industry and safety professionals to examine details of four crashes — including the multiple-death Saturna Island and Toba Inlet tragedies.
The majority of recommendations are aimed at improving regulation of the industry, with others meant to improve plane design, pilot training, weather-forecasting and accident record-keeping.
Patrick Morrissey, whose wife Dr. Kerry morrissey and their six-month old daughter Sarah were among the six who died in the November 2009 Saturna Island crash, said key changes such as mandatory exits and lifejackets for seaplanes are “no-brainers” that are already supported by most industry players.
Morrissey said it’s “disconcerting” that many of the recommendations have already been suggested by other investigative bodies, and the federal government has yet to act.
He said he and his family are motivated to turn the death of their loved ones into positive safety changes in seaplanes that could prevent further deaths.
“One thing that helps with grieving your loss is to create purpose around your loss,” Morrissey said. “It would help me and my family with the grief [if safety changes are adopted.]”
Morrissey said he and his surviving daughter, Claire, have “little rituals” to remember Kerry and Sarah. The family is also comforted that Kerry’s missionary work in Peru has received more funding and support since her death.
According to coroner, there were 111 fatal aviation incidents in B.C. from January 2000 through December 2009, including 202 deaths.
Float-plane companies are already making some of the recommended changes. Harbour Air officials said they have installed pop-out windows and easy-open door latches.
The industry is working with Transport Canada to find the best way to have passengers wear flotation devices during flight, said Randy Wright, senior vice-president of Harbour Air.
“They’re in the aircraft right now, they just have to be approved as to which . . . is the best and safest use,” he said.
The coroners report indicates that industry experts have concerns about untimely inflation of the devices, which could possibly trap passengers inside.
Panel members also heard about concerns that Transport Canadaapproved life vests may not be able to withstand extended and frequent use in commercial operations.