As a former Flight Surgeon at the Directorate of Flight Safety, I want to thank you for providing such a professional an honorable summary of this mishap. I enjoy your channel for this reason. RIP Capt Casey.
Why do people always tell their roles before speaking is that how you address your self to your friends? When you answer the phone HELLO FORMER FLIGHT SURGEON HERE
As a Canadian I just want to thank you for the respect you gave to this tragedy and your honesty when it comes to how this could have been avoided. You always speak so highly of us to the north and it's always greatly appreciated. RIP Capt Casey
@@Morpheen999 Unfortunatly the gov has enough planes in mothballs to keep these planes in tip top shape for quite awhile. And it dosen't matter what party is in power as long as the death tolls are spread out enough (unlike the Seaking and subs) the gov can keep kicking the can down the road. There has been talks of replacing them but then the Libs in particular bring up the idea of closing down the Snowbirds cause it costs too much. So the brass capitulate and the snowbirds keep flying 60 year old planes with outdated safety equipment. I was there at CFB Moose Jaw for the first inquiry on the seats 20 years ago. There is NO political will to spend any money on the Snowbirds despite how the polititians love to use them as the pride of Canada. Afterall spending money on the military is bad....why in the past 30-40 years do so many Candians have this stupid attitude? We rarely use the forces to attack anyone and they perform a multitude of tasks besides dropping boms or firing bullets. Ever since the Airborne incident 30 years ago its like its wrong to be proud of the forces to some people.
I hope you'll read my comments and know how much this American is grateful for our kind and loyal allies to the north. God bless Canada 🇨🇦 and the USA 🇺🇸
I flew the Tutor in the mid sixties and we had the ballistic seat that exerted 22g’s . I think over 25g’s can injure the spine but 22g’s was a real kick in the butt and they said the spine was compressed 1/4 - 1 inch. There was quite a procedure to strapping in as I can’t remember how many straps we had to get exactly in the right order so that the system worked. We were tested each month to make sure we were doing it correctly. In the seat something that was called a butt snapper which ran down the seat behind your back and under your butt so when you ejected the butt snapper would separate you from the seat. This was later changed to a better system. It was so long ago but seems like yesterday. Thank you for speaking about the report findings of this tragic crash and loss of life. My heart goes out to Jenn Casey’s family and to pilot Capt. Richard MacDougall
Please don't ever back down from your stance on safety. I'm incredibly proud of any service member who stands up to unsatisfactory safety measures / policies. Nightmare response from the powers that be: "Well its just too much money".
Yeah, it's like, "OK, so you want us to fight for you, in the aircraft you got the lowest bid for/from, and you DON'T want to spend the money to keep us safe, and flying them? WTF???"" Also, I love his vids because he explains each and every part of what the documents say, and has enough experience to compare it to real life, practical situations. Rare to find that, and even rarer to find someone making public videos of things like this. Always well explained. I enjoy the scientific look at things, the understanding that comes out of events, however I deplore the loss of life that forces action to be taken.
FROM A TUTOR PILOT: "I have over 3000 hours on the tutor and was a member of the 81 and 82 Snowbird teams. The ejection seat is, as you explained, a 0-60 seat; but in the early 80’s we learned that this did not factor for any downward vector. Pilots were then advised to try and not initiate an ejection below 2000AGL unless it was the last resort. Watching the video I see that the pilots initial actions were exactly as I remembered: Zoom, Idle, Airstart. Sadly, it appears that the ejection sequence began after the aircraft was descending. Prayers for the pilot that did not survive....heart break"
What exactly are you praying for, for the deceased pilot? Perhaps it would hold some actual meaning to convey our thoughts and respect to their family instead of meaningless and hopeless praying for a dead person?
Thank You Mover for doing this. I live in Kamloops, BC, and my fiance and I watched it happen as he(my fiance) is a pilot and we met the Snowbirds on several occasions, and my fiance got to go up with them years ago at the Abbotsford Airshow as a passenger, he remembers the occasion as the highlight of his life. My fiance's Dad served in the Canadian Army for 35 years and retired just after Desert Storm. Thanks again from the both of us for doing this. RIP Captain Jenn Casey, you are missed.
Hi neighbor, its amazing how fast word of the accident got out around town. My buddy is an aircraft mechanic and saw it as well. Sad day. RIP Captain Jenn Casey.
@@CDNSMOKEJUMPER WOW!! What are the chances that TWO people from the city of Kamloops would be on here?? Small world isn't it? It was a very sad day indeed though.
@Enles Freedom I was at the airport when it happened. My fiance was going to take me for a flight in his plane, he was just doing his preflight when we saw it happen... it was the saddest thing I ever saw. We both agree with you that we wish they could have left the fence decorated too...
@@velvetplatz1024 not super low. Being as this is a video about the incident, people familiar with it and have more than just a passing interest in flying could be drawn to Mover's channel. I'd expect to see other pilots, and military members here at the very least.
@@velvetplatz1024 RUclips algorithm suggests videos that are related to where you live. The suggested list by default is filled with videos from your country of origin. It's just big data being big data, not magic.
Canadian here . Thanks C.W. for your expert commentary on the technical investigation. There was a dedication ceremony to Captain Casey today Aug 30, 2024. . It is a memorial sculpture of the CT-114 Tutor.
Thank you, Mover, for looking at only the facts of this accident. I knew Jenn well, I first met her in 2018 while serving as the PAO on the CF-18 Demo Team and then of course with the Snowbirds. She had an infectious personality and loved her job. I appreciate you giving this the proper coverage without a distortion of facts or political interference. Keep up the great videos.
@@EssaBee The Snowbirds have been the representation of the Canadian Armed Forces for many many years. They represent all branches of our Armed Forces, where as the Hornet Demo really encompasses our Air Force. The unfortunate reality is that our Canadian military as a whole is under funded, under appreciated & accidents like these, while tragic, serve as a reminder of our negligence in our militaries equipment.
@@NickChute we could give you the best military equipment... You would still suck. Life isn't fair, diversity isn't a strength. We don't need you. You never mattered.
As a retired RCAF maintainer, I want to thank you for your thoughtful and thorough assessment of this tragic incident. May God bless all those involved and affected. Per ardua ad astra
Kamloops resident here, that was a rough day for our city. There's a really cool improvised memorial at the fence that separates the airport from the residential area, and I was blown away by the amount of flowers and signs and things people had brought for Jenn. Thanks for the movie, Mover.
We should be flying the best aircraft out there. We owe it to the pilots, their families, their crews and the country we are defending. Thank you for flying and protecting.
I don't care what you're flying, if you try the impossible turn, it's probably not going to end well! He hit a populated area anyway. Also...."pull the handle"??? A mms I indicated in another comment, perhaps we want to be more selective about where locate airfield s and certainly hold air shows, if all!
Hey Matteo, let's talk about that ukrainian airliner full of Canadians that the iranians shot down and you people did nothing... You are jokes. Don't step aboard and act as if you rate amongst us... You don't. What circumstances do you wish were different? That your country had manhood?
@@dhardy6654 Dan Hardy aka Tator Nogin as he refers to himself, apparently does this anti-Canada thing on other videos. Clearly he is a bit of a man child. Perhaps still upset after his father’s death. You see Dan, it’s not nice to talk ill of others, especially when it involves death. I get the impression you do not like me talking of Hal in such a way. Maybe, you should learn a golden rule so I don’t need to make an example of you. It is, “If you have nothing good to say, do not say anything at all.” Dan, Tator, whatever you and Magic Mike call yourself, only you are the one believing the lies in your head.
Thank you for explaining the report. As a Canadian citizen I have signed petitions to get the Snowbirds new aircraft. I am aware It was looked at to replaced the Tudor with the BAE Hawk. Just a note a friend said to me after watching both the Snowbirds and the USAF Thunderbirds. Watching the Snowbirds is like watching a ballet and watching the Thunderbirds is like watching a rock concert. I fully agree with you that the Snowbirds need new Aircraft.
Yeah, I live in Duluth, Minnesota, and we have a big air show every year here. Thunderbirds, Blue Angels, F-35 and F-22 demonstrators, etc. this years show was in June, and then a couple weeks ago (August, 2024), the Snowbirds came down and did a show for us right out over Lake Superior. It was fantastic, but the differences are as you say, a rock concert and a ballet. The interesting thing to me about the Snowbirds show was how quiet it is, and also, what an absolute study in energy management their show is.
thank you very much for this Mover.....as a canadian, and retired RCAF CF-18 maintainer, i appreciate you taking the time to go through the report from DFS. RIP Capt Casey "Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth, And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wing's"
As an air cadet from Moose Jaw, the home of the Snowbirds, I want to thank you for doing this in such a professional way. The Snowbirds and the plane itself have been getting a lot of hate lately because of this crash. And i do understand why people would send hate to the plane for not being functional, but these crashes always happen. With you explaining it in a way that people can understand it, i just want to say thank you. Everyone in Moose Jaw was hit hard by this, and with you showing this kind of respect towards the incedent it makes me happy to see such a nice community. RIP Capt Casey.
100 percent agree with your assessment. The Tutor should have been retired 30 years ago, we use the Hawk as our current trainer (MB seats) and if they had been in one of those i truly believe Jenn would be alive.
Thank you for your input on this tragic incident. Your advice to stop demonstrations with outdated aircraft is valid. I hope they rethink using these aircraft and others this old in the future. Thanks again C.W. Your insight is valuable.
As a space craft builder (lego) and commander of a large space fleet (also lego) I just want to say; Please don't ever back down from your stance on safety. I'm incredibly proud of any service member who stands up to unsatisfactory safety measures / policies.
Thanks Mover. Met Capt. Casey multiple times at both Sprinbank airshow and at the Abbotsford airshow the summer before the accident. Have a Snowbirds pin on my jacket from her. While the Tutor is a classic I'm in the camp that they need new jets.
As a former RAF Flight Lieutenant and ex airline flight crew, Capt Casey's death was tragic. I commend C.W. Lemoine,s professional review of the AIB report on the RCAF Snowbirds Fatal Mishap on 17th May 2020. Again, RIP Capt Casey.
Appreciate your discussion of the mishap report. When I flew fam riders, always emphasized the what-if scenarios and how we would handle emergencies. Prayers for Capt Casey and her family.
Ty sir. In 1968-69 I was in pilot training at Williams AFB. I had a very similar incident in a t-37. We survived because we flew straight and level in a glide. Number 2 engine had blown out a retaining ring causing double engine failure during a touch and go. I immediately trimmed nose down to the left so the plane would crash in a vacant field. My instructor initiated ejection and we both left the aircraft, our parachutes deployed, we did 1 swing and hit the ground. We had only bruises and sore ankles. I did get a pass on ejection procedures. RIP good pilot.
I trained on these things in the 1980s and they were old back then and should have been replaced decades ago. They only exist in the Snowbirds now and the Cockpit is a dog's breakfast. My instructor told me if I lost the engine at below 800 feet, just zoom, level off and punch out. Don't try to turn back or restart because the engine won't have time to spool up and give you enough thrust to save the aircraft anyway, and you'll be outside the safe ejection envelope if you waste time. Canada has always cheaped out on the military and our equipment and it's disgraceful. I'm also an Australian dual citizen and after also serving in the Australian military I can say that the approach to defense by the Governments of both countries is as different as chalk and cheese. The RAAF is very well equipped, with modern equipment and aircraft, including for the Roulettes display team, while the RCAF is buying old RAAF Classic Hornets to try to keep up their NATO and NORAD obligations while stalling on a replacement for the old Hornets. Most of the RCAF rotary wing assets are not suitable for their missions either. The Government of Canada and their apathetic approach to Defense is responsible for the death of this young Officer. The People of Canada support their servicemen and women and those who serve in the Defense Force deserve to be given the proper tools to do their jobs.
@Shon De Vet "well maintained " is great but "very outdated planes" are issues no matter how well we maintain the Tudors. Hell, the US has to reuse and fabricate special tools and parts for their old 1 plane demo teams, as these specialized tools, parts, shops stop running as it's not financially viable....parts stop getting made and some of the only 1 man demo planes are newer (and SELF-OWNED, not highly respected officers in the force anymore) than the Tudors were designed in the 50s (first flight in the 60s)...if you're are going to give our best pilots a chance to safely show off, TOGETHER ESPECIALLY, don't skimp on the plane they use. We have a neighbor (actually a great neighbor, but we get so caught up in jealousy, envy, fights with for some reason) to the south who customizes their Thunderbirds Air Force (F-16) and Navy Blue Angels (just got F-18 Super Hornets) for safety, which Canada can do too. Maybe our Snowbirds can even be able to keep their historical 11 jet flying team and outclass the Americans as the best in the world! While I do enjoy the Snowbirds, if you've seen the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds, the roar of those Turbofan General Electric's in the 16 and Turbofan General Electric's in the 18 just give me goosebumps. Who knows, but I've been to 2 Snowbird shows/year and it's time for a change up. We can do better if we'd just invest in this!!! We just have to be willing to accept the Americans and their crashes over the years!! 🇨🇦 The fact is, we will eventually need to upgrade from a nearly WW2 era plane if we want the Snowbirds to continue
The RCAF doesn't have the all in one fighter that can last decades like they want. Probs stalling for time for the other designs to appear (UK and American next gen fighters)
Rotary assets not suitable? The only time I've had this talked about was during Afghanistan in higher altitude the griffin was not powerful enough for a full load. The sea kings were fucking shit for a long time and are mostly phased out by now. If anything an equivalent to the venom is what we'd need (UH1Y). And while we still use old P3s they've been reliable planes as they've already been through I think 3 engine upgrades, and new wings, with consistent upgrades for the past 11 years
@@invertedv12powerhouse77 they have been using BAe Hawks for years for their NATO FTC program. They could simply get more Hawks if they wanted to modernize the Snowbirds. The Hawk is already in inventory and support services are in place.
Thank you very much for making this video. I live in Kamloops BC & was a partial witness to this incident, I was looking away the moment of the punch-out & when the impact with the ground occurred. I was looking back seconds after impact. Within an hour later I had to travel to that part of town for a meeting & saw from a distance the carnage on the street the aircraft crashed. I hope to never see anything like that again. This was a very traumatic event for those on that street & the people living their trying to enjoy their day only to have it come crashing down on them. I seriously hope, but doubt, the government will heed the lessons learnt here to make sure 0-0 ejection seats are a minimum requirement for all ejection seats going forward. I also echo all your recommendations you shared at the end of the video. Cheers from Kamloops BC
Spot on analysis Mover. I hope this resonates with people who can make a change and put these brave pilots and crew in safer conditions while serving their country.
Excellent review of the report and analysis. I was a young instructor in Moose Jaw when a squadron mate with a student on a formation flight test was one of these incidents in the report where turning back resulted in an off field crash. Fortunately both pilots survived. The Instructor realized through the first half of the turn that he wasn’t going to make it back. He levelled the aircraft and initiated a second small zoom (in reality just levelling it off). The student ejected within the envelope while the instructor was just outside the envelope but luckily the ‘chute opened and in the first swing he landed in a snow filled ditch. Injuries were limited to a minor concussion where his knee slammed into his face. He was lucky. Has his seat in his basement. Now the ejection seat are (I believe) are the 4th iteration of the ejection seat. The ones I flew in the 80’s were the third iteration. There are still old and the same basic platform with incremental improvements. I believe Low Key in a forced landing pattern for the Tutor was around 1000 ft AGL. Any old Tutor drivers can correct me. Concur, they need to update. We have the Hawks. It would take much to add a few to the fleet and paint them in the classic Snowbird colours.
I hate watching these mishap review videos Mover, but I watch them anyway. I feel it's important that you do them. You handle them respectfully, and professionally. Thank you. Rest easy Captain Casey.
As a retired Navy, and current contractor Egress Tech this hurts to see. My company had a tragedy a little while back where we had an aircraft go down and lost both aviators. Not sure what happened in that situation, will be watching for the report. Rest In Peace to all
As a Canadian, thanks for doing this. It's inexcusable that this team is still in the Tutor. We own dozens of CT-155 Hawks that our Hornet pilots train with... why they aren't in these or the CF-18s is beyond me.
We don't own the Hawks, they are leased, every one of them. Also we can barely get our CF-18s running to do normal day to day stuff. Have you seen how many times the Demo CF-18s have been down the last few years on the airshow circuit? These are the CF-18s with the least hours on them also.
@@BeheadTheGovernment_andReboot she signed the dotted line, every member of the military is a hero in that way. For the vast majority of those who join the military, that one action may be the only heroic thing they do and believe me when I tell you this, it is not an easy thing to do. Look at my picture, I was a firefighter for years. I never once pulled a baby from the water or rescued a damsel from the window of a burning structure, but I too signed the line knowing that action may lead to my demise in the effort to give service to my community. Not the same as the military by any stretch but still something the majority of people will never do voluntarily.
@@lonnywilcox445 Being around the team, and seeing the bird strike herself (she called it apparently), she had to know they were in trouble. She could have bailed out on her own, but waited as part of the team to try and let the pilot do his thing. Which turned out to be trying to save civilian lives before their own lives. That's f***ing heroic, and her being a willing participant (she knew how to eject on her own) makes her a f***ing hero. I don't know that every person who signs a line is automatically heroic, but if in the heat of the moment putting your life on the line for others isn't heroic, then I don't know what is. Two heroes and a lose-lose choice. Great analysis Mover. Thanks. And Lonny, I appreciate the sentiment and salute you for your willingness to help and serve others.
Thank you very much for getting the full report. As usual, the RCAF typically only releases the epilogue on their website. It is my understanding that the full report needs to be requested. Canadian DND PR people are awesome! I used to be part of numerous aerospace student initiatives and groups at university and every time that we needed a speaker, they always delivered awesome RCAF people for the occasion. RIP Capt. Casey
I live one hour from Kamloops BC, and have always been a huge fan of the Snowbirds, and I appreciate you making this video. This one hurt, when it happened, and it still hurts. RIP Captain Casey.
C.W. Lemoine to give you an idea of how old this aircraft is....My Father did his flight training on this plane before he did fighter lead in training on F86 sabers then moved to 104 starfighters. Then instructed on this airframe. My younger brother then did his primary flight training on the same aircraft....On a interesting side note...My brother and Father did get to fly together as pilots on a training mission in C130's
My Dad was one of the first instructors of instructors on the Tutor and then ended up on CF-86's and then on CF-104's as well. I agree with Mover that the Canadian Government is negligent in providing decent equipment to it's aircrew and we are currently trying to replace our 45 year old CF-18's with 40 year old Aussie F-18's because we can't get our shit together to order up F-35's. By the time they replace the CF-18's, the US will be flying 6G fighters. Two service members have had their lives destroyed because our politicians can't do their jobs and keep our troops outfitted. It is pathetic.
The age of the aircraft had nothing to do with the accident. A modern Airbus A320 was taken out by bird strikes. A modern Airbus A330 with flight envelope protection was taken out by a stall. None of those aircraft had the benefits of any sort of escape system. Because of the extreme skill of the first pilot, everyone survived. Because of the extreme negligence of the second pilot, everyone died. You can’t put everything on the government. Government procurement is a nightmare. But ultimately it’s up to DND where a lot of that funding goes. It’s up to the RCAF whether they want a demonstration squadron. It’s up to 431 Squadron whether they want to continue operations. And it’s up to the individual pilots who ALWAYS have the last word as to whether to accept the risk or not. I have flown much older, much less capable aircraft over much more inhospitable terrain and have indeed lost an engine roughly the same time this pilot did and did not have the benefit of an ejection seat. I’m alive and unharmed because I did not stall the aircraft until it came to rest on the surface. If you stall a plane with higher wing loading than the Tutor, it’s going to snap upside down and it doesn’t matter what seats you have. Even the CF-18 in Lethbridge the pilots barely escaped.. and they changed the operations, not the aircraft, to reduce that risk.
@@steveburton5825 The F-35 is worthless. 1) It doesn't have the capabilities of the various Aircraft it was designed to replace, and 2) the Maintenance hours to Flights hours are horrendous. Governments now want more BANG for their 'bucks' in that 'Single Mission Aircraft' are things of the past. Now, every Aircraft, including Transport Aircraft, HAVE to be Multi-Mission capable, or they are not worth the money to buy them. This is WRONG!! I for one would rather have an Aircraft that is a MASTER at the one thing it is designed to do, rather than a 'Jack of all trades.'
@Jerry V The “Jack of all trades” NONSENSE didn’t work with TFX; it doesn’t appear to have worked with JSF which is now ancient, still plagued, and hideously expensive. It would be interesting to know what is the TRUE objective of JSF, because it certainly isn’t as was stated.
@@bravo0105 The "TRUE objective?" So that Lockheed Martin can make BILLIONS in cost over-runs and modifications (to make the plane do what they said it would do in the first place). I'm of the opinion that ALL Military contracts should STOP being 'Cost PLUS' and just be "Fixed price." Cost PLUS contracts just give the Contractor NO incentive to do the job right the first time. It DOES give them the incentive to get extra money (read PROFIT!) for things that SHOULD have been included in the original proposal. IMHO, Fixed Price contracts make the Contractor bear the burden of the QUALITY of their products... not the Government.
As one of the current technicians at 431 squadron thank you for your respect for Captain Jennifer Casey. All of us have felt the sorrow that came with what happened, we do what we can everyday to ensure the safety of everybody involved. Your opinions are your own and I can't change what you think. The video is very professional and informative for those not involved. Clear skies and fair winds.
So sad it’s always hard when anyone is lost, but there’s always something harder when it’s a demonstration team. May God give her friends and family peace.
What an amazing summary. Thank you. As a Canadian ex-pat, I can only hope that Canadians see this and advocate more safe equipment for their service personnel.
Having followed you for a number of years, I have to first say thank you for this comprehensive debrief and insight into this tragic incident. As a Canadian and long time fan of the Snowbirds, I can say this incident was troubling and affected many due to the loss of Captain Casey. Many of us up here share your opinion; it'd really be nice to see the Squadron finally move on from the Tutor... It's long overdue. Cheers C.W. - I have so much more respect for you hearing your candor and feeling your honesty in this clip. Keep doing what you do; you do it well. - EAF79_GenX (NV - G) (79 Squadron Virtual Royal Air Force), Calgary, Canada
You may not see this mover, but In 2019 the snow birds lost a aircraft at the Atlanta motor speedway airshow, the pilot ejected and survived, but it was a scary accident
This was the report from the Atlanta crash. "The investigation also determined that the mostly likely cause of the parachute malfunction was the result of one or more parachute pack retaining cones having been released prior to the activation of the MK10B Automatic Opening Device. Entanglement of the suspension lines with parts of the ejection seat immediately followed ultimately disrupting the proper opening of the parachute canopy. Inspection of all related Tutor Aviation Life Support Equipment was subsequently carried out to ensure fleet airworthiness."
Excellent analysis. The RCAF is severely behind in its fighter replacement program, and just recently updated it's SAR assets. Replacement of the Snowbirds' aircraft were very low on the totem pole.
"Severely behind" is an understatement. Everybody else would have 6th gen nearing retirement by the time our govt. even gives a definite answer for what to do with F-35 procurement.
I went to school with Jennifer's mother in the North end of Halifax and my mother was in the same room has Jennifer's grandmother in a seniors care facility and I would listen to her grandmother talk about how proud she was of her granddaughter I never got to meet Jennifer but the people of the North end of Halifax mourned her death and had a parade in honor of our very own hero God bless the Casey family and her Beautiful mother Rose she was one amazing person and a proud North ender !
This incident hit me a little harder as I met and spoke with Captain Casey at a few airshows here in CA. World is small and life is too short. Thanks for your review and insight Mover.
Honest and clear review.The Tutor belongs in a museum or a flying collection.RIP,Captain.This should have never happened,they deserved better.My condolences.
Your closing statement is professional and profound, Capt. Richard MacDougall, and public affairs officer Capt. Jennifer Casey are Canadian Heros. The injury and death of are Heros is profoundly saddening. Canadians take great pride in the RCAF Snowbirds ability to perform world class aerobatic maneuvers in the CT-114 Tutor and in the ability of those members of the RCAF that support and keep them flying. Your perspective regarding the use of the Tutor highlights the additional danger flying the Tutor places on the RCAF Snowbird pilots, crew and passengers. While there are plans to replace the Tutor, no replacement is expected until after 2026. Unless grounded the Tutor will with upgrades fly until a replacement is found.
Nice, detailed breakdown on this incident. Thank you for keeping to the facts, and it's obvious your heart is in it for the right reasons. It's sad that you have to, but keep highlighting stuff like this so more people understand the truth, and how these deaths can be avoided. Like everywhere, in Canada, it's all about the money.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart on a very well and professional presentation of the facts. As most are aware this was a very devastating time for the RCAF. I work at 1 Canadian Air Division in Winnipeg and it was a very somber mood the day this happened. Capt Casey was well known and had worked with many members of 1 CAD. She will be for ever missed. Per Ardua ad Astra, RIP Jen.
Great "My Thoughts". The entire time you were reviewing the analysis I wondered why they had such a narrow envelop of operation for the ejection seat on demonstration aircraft. Even the report ignores the operational shortcomings of the emergency equipment.
I want to congratulate you for your excellent presentation of such narrow margin ejection in a Canadian Tutor. You are a pro and I like that! The Argentine Air Force had an excellent trainer such as the twin engined Morane Saulnier MS-760 Paris II which was manufactured in Argentina's Fábrica Militar de Aviones (FMA). The MS-760 was flown by many generations of outstanding Argentine fighter pilots but were grounded after 40 years of service and constant updates. I became a Private Pilot in 1970 and I had a wonderful carrier flying 707s, 737s, 747-200s and 747SP! Currently I am a Lawyer and practice Civil and Family Law. My condolences to the Canadian Family
Thank you for walking through the series of events that led to this incident. Your candour and professionalism to not second guess the pilots decisions is greatly appreciated. And you’re spot on to question why these planes are still in the air and should be taken seriously by the Canadian government.
Prayers and thoughts to Captain Jenn Casey, her family and fellow Snowbirds. Being a former USAF Parachute Rigger 88-92 at Nellis home of the Thunderbirds, this hits home. Movers review appears to be dead on. Sadly the envelope for that aircraft is more limited than the ACESII in the F-16. I can remember the four times we had a down aircraft up range, we would immediately take the AF tail number to find out who packed the chute. Then it was a long painful wait to find out did they make a successful ejection?? Thank God we each of those pilot later made appearance at the Parachute Shop. I only with this would have been a different story. RIP Jenn, you will be remembered!!
On the older seats and parachutes being worn to the aircraft, I recently transitioned from the Viper (and the ACES II) to the A-4N and TA-4J. The Skyhawk's got an Escapac 1G-3, good seat for its time with a good reputation (YF-16 had an Escapac). The thing I was surprised by and still find suboptimal is that the chute on the Escapac IS the seatback cushion. It (and the survival kit) join to the seat with a lock pin and the manual release option is much similar to the Viper, but it's slower. The problem with the older seats is that often times, the times you need to get out with a quickness, you're either right on the edge or already out of envelope. RIP Capt Jenn Casey.
Thank you for publishing this debrief. Your contribution offers insight that is unlikely to be available en masse otherwise. Keep up the good work you do. 🙏 I do hope this incident inspires changes/updates at RCAF 431 Squadron. May the loss of Capt. Jennifer Casey not be in vain, and may Capt. Casey rest in peace.
Thanks for covering this mishap. This was a really sad event, RIP Jenn Casey. Truly sad to see another avoidable fatality, especially when its due to old equipment whose service life keeps getting extended over and over again.
Thanks for covering this. It hit alot of us here in Halifax and CFB Shearwater hard. Bad enough to loose ppl during war but even worst during peace time and under such inspirational missions when our countries are dealing with the situation. Thanks with much respect from N.S. Canada
Excellent review Mover. You hit the nail on the head... give them the tools to do the job. A functioning zero-zero ejection seat is the last thing that will potentially save a pilot.
Thanks, Mover, for covering this, and making it digestible to those of us who like to fly but aren't pilots. I've watched you do several videos explaining mishap reports. That can't be easy for you as a pilot. As you were explaining all the issues with the ejection seats, I was thinking of Mezr the whole time. I also agree with every word you said at the end about the planes and seats. RIP Captain Casey. We send our condolences to her family, friends, her squadron mates in the Snowbirds, and the entire RCAF.
Your thoughts ("My thoughts") at the end were perfect imo----I couldn't agree more. Those aircraft need to be mothballed, definitely. Sure, they've been very well maintained, but once a plane gets past a certain age, all the maintenance in the word doesn't matter anymore. Again, great analysis Mr. Lemoine.
Living in Kamloops and seeing the crash scene the accident really hit home. Thanks so much for a very well done explanation for what happened on that day. VERY well done summary.
What a tragedy, this is heartbreaking, thank you for covering this. Captain Jenn Casey is a a devastating loss for the unit and our forces, I also have her family in my thoughts. It seems to me as a civilian that this is the way the Canadian Forces get treated and how they're seen, they are asked to do tremendously difficult things regularly and get absolutely no support or funding. Just tragic.
Won't change. The public does not make defence budgets a priority so the Government doesn't. Hell many in the public think of the CF as "peacekeepers" and actual combat missions are not to be supported. Maybe if more civillians in this country cared the Government would.
I was an instructor and check pilot on both the Tutor in the mid 60s , and on exchange in the T-38 from 70 to 73. I have well over 1000 hours on each type, and for the time, they were wonderful aircraft. You are correct in assuming thzt we practiced a forced landing pattern, and although I can't remember all the altitudes, I can remember that high ket was over the button 2500 agl,, low key was around 1500,downwind, and final key was 1000 agl at 90 degrees, with the goal of landing on the first 1/3 of the tunway . In Moose Jaw, on the deck past the departure end of the runway, throtteling back to maintain 175 kts. I experienced a compressor stall. Immediately entered a climbing turrn for the downwind low key (while depressing the airstart button). I was able to make low key just a little low on altitude, so I delayed extending the gear and was able to make final key on the money, for a normal, deadstick landing. Did I tell you thatI think the Tutor and the Talon are fantastic aircraft, and I would hop in either one of them tomorrow, BTW, when we started flying them in1965, they still had the ballistic ejection seat, so the 0 ft and 60 knot seat was a considerable improvement.. I can't remember the exact minimum altidude ejection, but anything below 1000, in theTutor or the Talon with bank or sink, was not survivable. The ejection sequence was, raise handles, which blew the canopy, and squeeze the triggers, which initiated the ejection whether the canopy was gone or not. I don't remember anything abuot a delay, but that could have been added. A turning stall on the Tutor, could put you on your back in a heartbeat, so the trick was, to be respectful. You could fly close formation with your fingertips. The aircraft control was superb. I know the aircraft is old, but I wouldent have a moment of hesitation for the opportunity to hop in one and do an hour of aerobatics,including some 5G vertical stuff. I am very sorry for the loss of the one crewmember, and the injuries to the pilot. Just from looking at the video, I was surprised he survived. Sometimes, all we have is luck. I complement you on your respectfull review. I also envy you that you still get to fly the T-38. We did a lot of formation flying in them back in the 70s. Fond memories. Bob
Great analysis. Thank you. As a Canadian living in Toronto I have watched the Snowbirds for 50 years. I continually ask the same question. Why do we ask these amazing pilots to risk their lives in 60 year old trainer jets. I would not drive a 60 year old Ferrari at the limits. Yet every year we bring another group of pilots out in 60 year old planes to entertain us. We'd scoff if this was Russia. This is Canada damn it. Time to buy this amazing team a modern ride.
Thank you for your analysis and final thoughts. As a Canadian whose family has had two generations of RCAF pilots including #7 Snowbird -1986/87 and a son who aspires to a three generation pilot, as a father, I don’t want my son flying the Tutor for the exact reasons you stated. I also don’t the CF18 is a much better choice as these airframes are being pushed beyond their intended service life. Though the ejection seat of the CF18 is far superior to the Tutor. The budgets that our military gets always falls short of what is needed. We’ve been waiting for new fighters for over a decade! Rest In Peace Captain Casey. You are missed and won’t be forgotten.
Apparently the Canadian government has known for 20 years that replacing the Tutors was a matter of some urgency, and at one time the plan was to retire them in 2010. But several successive governments - formed by multiple different Parties - have all flaked out when they saw the price tag. The current plan is to keep the Tutors through _at least_ 2030. _Maybe_ with some upgrades, _if_ the currently-planned avionics & safety update program actually happens (the cost of the modernization keeps going up, a process that often results in _no_ work getting done because it's too expensive).
Thank you for that very well done report on the crash. I was at home in Kamloops that morning that occurred, and the affect it had on our city was profound. I am very proud of how our community responded in support of the Snowbirds, and it was hard to watch the Tudors sitting on the tarmac at the airport for months after the crash waiting for clearance to fly again. The Snowbirds are a much loved Canadian hallmark, but I agree with everyone here that has said it is time to take the Tutor out of service, and replace them with a modern aircraft. Capt Casey, we shall remember you always.
They're highly respected here in the US also, I've seen them fly at several air shows and they were top notch. Condolences to your community and the Snowbirds themselves.
Canada is notorious for taking forever to update or retire old equipment/vehicles. These aircraft should've been retired long ago. Such an unnecessary loss.
That was a perfect mix of reviewing the facts and you articulating your expert opinion. At the beginning of this video I hoped you would speak freely after reviewing the investigation’s report. I bow down to you sir; your expertise and your wise opinions are much appreciated.
I remember this happened as the blue angels and thunderbirds were doing their joint flyovers across the country. Really sad. Especially because they were trying to raise the morale of the people up there. Won’t be forgotten.
I really appreciate this. I have been a fan of the Snowbirds for my whole life and I thank you for a really professional and respectful overview of the incident.
1.15.2 & .3 was though to listen to. I know many of these people from my work with airshows as photography and video.... thanks Mover for giving a honest, fair, and respectful analysis. Clear skies Jen, clear skies.
Nice analysis, Mover. I like the clinical analysis and the clear, nonjudgemental approach along with a good explanation for the necessary components of the report so nonaviators can understand
As a Canadian (not a pilot) I have always had an interest in the RCAF and the Snowbirds. I believe the Tutors were scheduled for replacement about 15 years ago but that obviously did not happen. Like you observed, I have often wondered just how many years of age and obsolescence of equipment has to occur before bad events overtake the technology. Regretfully, the RCAF had and has a responsibility to supply to service members a technology platform that is consistent with the modern and best vehicle of safety and operation. In the case of today's Snowbirds, the RCAF has just released the 2021 Snowbirds show schedule to be flown with the same 61 year old CT-114 Tutor Jets. Thank you for your review and observations on the accident report.
This captures my thoughts perfectly, I applaud you for saying it out loud. The Canadian Forces, and by extension the Government of Canada have failed these brave individuals. It saddens me, but I say this as a lifelong snowbirds fan, retire the Tudor or disband the 431.
Pretty sure the pilot's understand the limitations of their equipment and willingly accept all additional risk involved. Also sure there is no shortage of applicants to serve on the Snowbird team. If the pilots decide the risk is too high, they will refuse to fly and the team will be discontinued. Why should the gov. of Canada allows the fans to determine the fate of the team?
Better aircraft or better seats... poignant words, my friend. Words that those upstairs would be wise to heed. The day the incident occurred I watched a video of the plane approaching the camera of a bystander (at this point, nobody had seen what caused the crash) and I saw the birds trajectory. I contacted the Canadian Air Accident people and they didn't respond for over a month and they then told me I'd contacted the wrong branch as it was a different department that deals with these types of incidents. Here in the UK they would've been back in contact within a matter of hours. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and thoughts in this video, it's really appreciated
As a Canadian I totally agree with your conclusions. It’s been a political football during many governments tenure. We need to fix the problem or disband the snowbirds. Great presentation
Our military needs a government that will stand behind it and fund it properly. Canada for Canadians support our forces so we can stand with the rest of the world's top military forces as we have always done! Scrap the snowbirds are you nucken futs! Buy JAS39 E and get the Birds new rides. Our national pride needs a overhaul!
@@GITMachine Unfortunately this is a problem throughout the Western world: politicians are very quick to give the armed forces missions, but very slow to provide the services with the resources to actually perform those missions.
@@davemingle6743 Not nuts. It sounds unthinkable, but that starkness is necessary. If you don't fund the nice thing, you shouldn't have the nice thing. They want the nice thing, it's time they paid for it. The jets aren't even really cheap. They just were paid for decades ago. Newer kit with easier better maintenance and better margins will always save... something. Lives, definitely, probably money as well.
Very, very sad. From experience of similar jets in the RAF I'd say you needed 2000' to actually get back on the runway but now I know there was a built-up area ahead I imagine that was never on his mind. He just wanted to point the jet in a safe direction and step over the side. I'm sure he saved a lot of lives. We can't second guess his actions but the Human Factors points will be there to be found and hopefully something good will come out of this. A more modern display aircraft would be top of my list too. A tragic loss.
This one hit close to home as I'm from about an hour south of Comox, where they practice, and I have seen them countless times between that area and Cold Lake
Another thorough and professional presentation and analysis, Mover. I am somewhat surprised that the AIB report and you didn't discuss the following: it is apparent from the video that the mishap aircraft not only experienced accelerated aerodynamic stall but also spin entry. Despite the fact that the aircraft only executed 270° of turn in the incipient spin before recovery to the ensuing unrecoverable dive, precious altitude was unfortunately lost while severe nose down attitude and sink rate were exacerbated. I acknowledge that this might sound like "Monday morning quarterbacking", but the purpose of this exercise is to learn something that might prevent similar loss of life and serious injury under similar circumstances in the future. This observation might be useful: if the mishap pilot in his laudable attempt to steer the aircraft toward a less populated area had done so in a modestly nose low, more shallowly banked turn than he used, he might have avoided the accelerated stall and spin entry that virtually condemned the crew to an out-of-the-envelope ejection. I realize that things were happening very quickly for him, and that muscle memory would have been accumulated in similar looking situations but with a high power setting that would have permitted completion of such a turn without stalling/spinning. We simply don't train to do low altitude, high bank angle turns at idle power. In an emergency situation like this, trained reflexes automatically take over. In this case, that may have sealed their fate. I extend my most heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of all concerned with this heartbreaking tragedy. Long live Canada and the deep friendship that endures between our two countries. LtCol J.D. "Bear" Owen (Ret)
Well said CW. I think your assessment is a good one. It's been tough on the Snowbirds and their families along with the country. Captain Casey was well liked and loved being assigned to the Snowbirds. She knew the risks and hardship being away from family and friends for extended periods. She was hooked and was living her dream job. The CT-114 is a lightweight basic military jet trainer that is out of date and due for retirement. It would be cost prohibitive to implement an updated ejection seat for a side by side cockpit that has structural bulkhead limits. The aircraft itself is a safe platform. Bird strikes occur and are the cause of fatal accidents around the world in all types of civilian and military aircraft. Accidents are going to occur. The RAF BBMF (Battle of Britain Memorial Flight), which fly 75 year old aircraft such as the Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane take the same risks as the Snowbirds do. These are serving RAF pilots and crews. And they have no bailout ejection seats. It's something to reflect upon. It is high risk and the odds do not favor the crews. Given that fact the RCAF invests millions of dollars in its flight crews, it should be using the very best and updated safety technology. Unfortunately, the government has failed to update the aircraft used by 431 Sqdn for 20 plus years spanning 4 different elected governments. All wanted to save money while still keeping the iconic Snowbirds in the air. RCAF Command is partly to blame because it failed to push for an updated platform. Operating the F-18 is 8 to 9 times the cost per flight hour compared to the CT-114 and does NOT including airshow costs, depending on how many cycles on the airframe and engine(s). The J85 is a mere fraction of the cost to overhaul compared to the GE-404 (X2). To put this in perspective, in 2016, a RCAF report estimated the entire cost of flying 64 airshows across North America in 2016 was 4.3 million 🇨🇦 dollars including maintenance and overhaul reserves. That's the cost of two GE-404 overhauls on one CF-18. The incentive to keep the CT-114s flying is not difficult to comprehend. THE RCAFs CF-18 fleet is not a viable candidate due to airframe fatigue and cycle limits that remain and a key reason Canada acquired 20+ used F-18s from the RAAF as a stop gap until a F-18 replacement is approved and procured. This won't be decided, let alone delivered until at least 2024/25. The Hawk CT-155 would be a good choice but the 17 airframes the RCAF operate, are accumulating high airframe hours. They will eventually need replacing and perhaps, because they are still in production from BAE, could acquire 17 + 10. The only other possible "low" cost type that might be considered is the KAI TA-50 made by South Korea. It uses the GE-404 engine, the same one used in the CF-18, which might be possible to reuse, saving millions in the process. In any event, it's long overdue to either retire the CT-114 and replace it or disband 431 Sqdn. RIP Captain Casey.
Cap W E Johns - the writer of the "Biggles" stories - was taught to fly during WW1. One of the things drummed into him was: NEVER turn back to the airfield after an engine problem on take-off.
@@markhorton3994 Not quite. There's a river dead ahead / to the right of the runway. Turning back was known NOT to work in the Tutor. Pilot did so regardless. Not avoiding habitation, but turning left : towards it.
@@markhorton3994 He turned left, while the river was to the right. There could be a million reasons he made that choice, and we may never know, but from an observers perspective, it seemed like climbing, changing the aircraft course towards / beyond the river, and ejecting, would have been a better choice. But I won't pretend to know better since I was not the pilot in that moment.
Thank you for your balanced, fact-based review of the full accident investigation. I especially appreciate your practical experience and lack of speculation in regards to this tragic incident.
As a Canadian, you were very respectful in your thoughts. I totally agree with you, asking aircrews to fly 60 yr old equipment in very demanding environments. It would be like racing in a 2020 Nascar race with a 1960 Ford Falcon against today's nascar cars. And your sponsor expects you to win the Daytonna 500.
utter garbage, it's nothing like that! The aurcraft are flown within that aircrafts particular service window, that can never be beyond the capabilities of that aircraft. Thus your comparison is total and utter bunk
@@CWLemoine Yet more nonsense, you can race without helmets and it be safe, you apply the safety to the situation and the equipment and you don't push beyond that safety envelope, more PPE equals MORE risk taking, this is human behaviour everywhere, you cannot avoid it no matter who you are, and this = more incidents and more harm. this is health and safety basics. people like you don't understand and are not qualified to understand how PPE/some safety devices actually have a negative effect on overall safety as greater risks are taken due to the safety devices been adorned/in the minds of the wearer. We see the extremes of this with helmet wearing in cycling, seatbelts in motorvehicles, hi-visibility vests/garments and one of the worst, helmets in sport generally, gridiron being the number one sport with the most severe head/brain injury problems, all due to adding a so called 'safety' device into the equation. So please stop making comparisons that you are not remotely qualified to comment about!
I am not a pilot, but I will argue that perhaps he was successful. He didn’t injure any other people. It so unfortunate that Captain Casey did not survive. Thank you for your service, but especially your input.
I don't understand why they say the turn was done to "avoid populated area". Wasn't there a very wide and straight river directly in front of them? Seems like pilot was trying to do the "impossible 180 turn" (that had already been disproven) and the turn actually put more people on the ground in danger. Despite this error, it is amazing that Canada still equips their national flight demonstration team with the oldest ejection seat system.
The exact trajectory of the plane from the point of wings level ejection would be completely random, this was not a capt. Sully ditching event. I’m assuming you wrote your comment from an armchair on a Monday morning.
@@ibcoull All accident reports are done after the fact (aka Monday morning), how else can preventable errors be identified. As for your "Sully" comment, it's not about a water landing but staying straight and level to maximize recovery or successful ejection...with the additional benefit of the aircraft crashing into a river vs a populated neighborhood like it did. The report specifically advised against the turn back maneuver.
As long as people want to see them they will produce these shows. If people would stop buying tickets, they would have to retire these old birds. They sell tickets, right ? just guessing here. Maybe they give free demonstrations.......Don't know. Still , people should boycott these shows with obsolete planes. Dangerous enough with new ones.
As a former Flight Surgeon at the Directorate of Flight Safety, I want to thank you for providing such a professional an honorable summary of this mishap. I enjoy your channel for this reason. RIP Capt Casey.
Hear hear! Very respectful and correct. This accident still brings tears to this fellow Canadian pilot’s eyes. RIP Captain Casey
Rest in peace Capt. Casey.
Hello Flight. I was a JT at Lossiemouth. Served with our comrades in RCAF F18’s Red Flag. I was on Tonkers.
Why do people always tell their roles before speaking is that how you address your self to your friends? When you answer the phone HELLO FORMER FLIGHT SURGEON HERE
It's called establishing your bonifides. @thirstybonsai1888
As a Canadian I just want to thank you for the respect you gave to this tragedy and your honesty when it comes to how this could have been avoided. You always speak so highly of us to the north and it's always greatly appreciated.
RIP Capt Casey
We should have F-18's flying demo's
Theres no excuse, the amount of money the government wastes on stupid sh*t.. would easily pay for an F-18 upgrade
@@Morpheen999 Unfortunatly the gov has enough planes in mothballs to keep these planes in tip top shape for quite awhile. And it dosen't matter what party is in power as long as the death tolls are spread out enough (unlike the Seaking and subs) the gov can keep kicking the can down the road.
There has been talks of replacing them but then the Libs in particular bring up the idea of closing down the Snowbirds cause it costs too much. So the brass capitulate and the snowbirds keep flying 60 year old planes with outdated safety equipment.
I was there at CFB Moose Jaw for the first inquiry on the seats 20 years ago. There is NO political will to spend any money on the Snowbirds despite how the polititians love to use them as the pride of Canada. Afterall spending money on the military is bad....why in the past 30-40 years do so many Candians have this stupid attitude? We rarely use the forces to attack anyone and they perform a multitude of tasks besides dropping boms or firing bullets. Ever since the Airborne incident 30 years ago its like its wrong to be proud of the forces to some people.
I hope you'll read my comments and know how much this American is grateful for our kind and loyal allies to the north. God bless Canada 🇨🇦 and the USA 🇺🇸
CW. Your critical analysis is appreciated. It’s a Humanitarian SHAME that politicians & POE_li_tics put dedicated aviators at RISK! 👎🏾
I came here for this comment
I flew the Tutor in the mid sixties and we had the ballistic seat that exerted 22g’s . I think over 25g’s can injure the spine but 22g’s was a real kick in the butt and they said the spine was compressed 1/4 - 1 inch. There was quite a procedure to strapping in as I can’t remember how many straps we had to get exactly in the right order so that the system worked. We were tested each month to make sure we were doing it correctly. In the seat something that was called a butt snapper which ran down the seat behind your back and under your butt so when you ejected the butt snapper would separate you from the seat. This was later changed to a better system. It was so long ago but seems like yesterday.
Thank you for speaking about the report findings of this tragic crash and loss of life. My heart goes out to Jenn Casey’s family and to pilot Capt. Richard MacDougall
Please don't ever back down from your stance on safety. I'm incredibly proud of any service member who stands up to unsatisfactory safety measures / policies. Nightmare response from the powers that be: "Well its just too much money".
Yeah, it's like, "OK, so you want us to fight for you, in the aircraft you got the lowest bid for/from, and you DON'T want to spend the money to keep us safe, and flying them? WTF???""
Also, I love his vids because he explains each and every part of what the documents say, and has enough experience to compare it to real life, practical situations. Rare to find that, and even rarer to find someone making public videos of things like this. Always well explained. I enjoy the scientific look at things, the understanding that comes out of events, however I deplore the loss of life that forces action to be taken.
FROM A TUTOR PILOT:
"I have over 3000 hours on the tutor and was a member of the 81 and 82 Snowbird teams. The ejection seat is, as you explained, a 0-60 seat; but in the early 80’s we learned that this did not factor for any downward vector. Pilots were then advised to try and not initiate an ejection below 2000AGL unless it was the last resort.
Watching the video I see that the pilots initial actions were exactly as I remembered: Zoom, Idle, Airstart. Sadly, it appears that the ejection sequence began after the aircraft was descending. Prayers for the pilot that did not survive....heart break"
What exactly are you praying for, for the deceased pilot? Perhaps it would hold some actual meaning to convey our thoughts and respect to their family instead of meaningless and hopeless praying for a dead person?
@@troo_story OK, you don't respect his or the Pilots religion. Don't have to be a little oik about it do you.
The pilot survived tho
@Phil Collins Captain Jennifer "Jenn" Casey was the Snowbirds Public Affairs Officer. No she was not a pilot.
@@seanconlin8712 at this point you're just being a little pedantic, don't you think? You understood what the fuck he was talking about.
Thank You Mover for doing this. I live in Kamloops, BC, and my fiance and I watched it happen as he(my fiance) is a pilot and we met the Snowbirds on several occasions, and my fiance got to go up with them years ago at the Abbotsford Airshow as a passenger, he remembers the occasion as the highlight of his life. My fiance's Dad served in the Canadian Army for 35 years and retired just after Desert Storm. Thanks again from the both of us for doing this.
RIP Captain Jenn Casey, you are missed.
Hi neighbor, its amazing how fast word of the accident got out around town. My buddy is an aircraft mechanic and saw it as well. Sad day. RIP Captain Jenn Casey.
@@CDNSMOKEJUMPER WOW!! What are the chances that TWO people from the city of Kamloops would be on here?? Small world isn't it? It was a very sad day indeed though.
@Enles Freedom I was at the airport when it happened. My fiance was going to take me for a flight in his plane, he was just doing his preflight when we saw it happen... it was the saddest thing I ever saw. We both agree with you that we wish they could have left the fence decorated too...
@@velvetplatz1024 not super low. Being as this is a video about the incident, people familiar with it and have more than just a passing interest in flying could be drawn to Mover's channel. I'd expect to see other pilots, and military members here at the very least.
@@velvetplatz1024 RUclips algorithm suggests videos that are related to where you live. The suggested list by default is filled with videos from your country of origin. It's just big data being big data, not magic.
Canadian here . Thanks C.W. for your expert commentary on the technical investigation. There was a dedication ceremony to Captain Casey today Aug 30, 2024. . It is a memorial sculpture of the CT-114 Tutor.
Thank you, Mover, for looking at only the facts of this accident. I knew Jenn well, I first met her in 2018 while serving as the PAO on the CF-18 Demo Team and then of course with the Snowbirds. She had an infectious personality and loved her job. I appreciate you giving this the proper coverage without a distortion of facts or political interference. Keep up the great videos.
If we have a CF-18 demo team, then why are these old birds still in the sky?
@@EssaBee The Snowbirds have been the representation of the Canadian Armed Forces for many many years. They represent all branches of our Armed Forces, where as the Hornet Demo really encompasses our Air Force.
The unfortunate reality is that our Canadian military as a whole is under funded, under appreciated & accidents like these, while tragic, serve as a reminder of our negligence in our militaries equipment.
@@NickChute we could give you the best military equipment... You would still suck. Life isn't fair, diversity isn't a strength. We don't need you. You never mattered.
@@dhardy6654 Jeez, buddy you're going to trigger the uniform worshippers.
@@dhardy6654 You must be the life of the party. Have you figured out why
you are never invited?
As a retired RCAF maintainer, I want to thank you for your thoughtful and thorough assessment of this tragic incident. May God bless all those involved and affected.
Per ardua ad astra
To bad Ottawa doesn't care enough to pony up the $$$$ that the entire CAF needs.
Kamloops resident here, that was a rough day for our city. There's a really cool improvised memorial at the fence that separates the airport from the residential area, and I was blown away by the amount of flowers and signs and things people had brought for Jenn. Thanks for the movie, Mover.
We should be flying the best aircraft out there. We owe it to the pilots, their families, their crews and the country we are defending. Thank you for flying and protecting.
I don't care what you're flying, if you try the impossible turn, it's probably not going to end well! He hit a populated area anyway.
Also...."pull the handle"???
A mms I indicated in another comment, perhaps we want to be more selective about where locate airfield s and certainly hold air shows, if all!
Thanks for for talking about this Mover. It’s always great to see someone talking about the Snowbirds, I just wish the circumstances were different.
Hey Matteo, let's talk about that ukrainian airliner full of Canadians that the iranians shot down and you people did nothing... You are jokes. Don't step aboard and act as if you rate amongst us... You don't. What circumstances do you wish were different? That your country had manhood?
@@dhardy6654 Don't include us in "us", asshole. You are not one of us. What a complete POS.
@@dhardy6654 What are you on?
@@dhardy6654 Dan Hardy aka Tator Nogin as he refers to himself, apparently does this anti-Canada thing on other videos. Clearly he is a bit of a man child. Perhaps still upset after his father’s death. You see Dan, it’s not nice to talk ill of others, especially when it involves death. I get the impression you do not like me talking of Hal in such a way. Maybe, you should learn a golden rule so I don’t need to make an example of you. It is, “If you have nothing good to say, do not say anything at all.” Dan, Tator, whatever you and Magic Mike call yourself, only you are the one believing the lies in your head.
@@dhardy6654 Get bent you fucking idiot.
Thank you for explaining the report. As a Canadian citizen I have signed petitions to get the Snowbirds new aircraft. I am aware It was looked at to replaced the Tudor with the BAE Hawk. Just a note a friend said to me after watching both the Snowbirds and the USAF Thunderbirds. Watching the Snowbirds is like watching a ballet and watching the Thunderbirds is like watching a rock concert. I fully agree with you that the Snowbirds need new Aircraft.
Get it right.
Imagine a 9 ship CF-18 demo 😍
@@joshjenk1613 great idea...the USN Blue Angels I believe a Six (F18) Ship formation what's 3 more
@@seanconlin8712 same reason they use nine tutors now instead of six. Opens up a whole new world of possibilities for maneuvers.
Yeah, I live in Duluth, Minnesota, and we have a big air show every year here. Thunderbirds, Blue Angels, F-35 and F-22 demonstrators, etc. this years show was in June, and then a couple weeks ago (August, 2024), the Snowbirds came down and did a show for us right out over Lake Superior. It was fantastic, but the differences are as you say, a rock concert and a ballet. The interesting thing to me about the Snowbirds show was how quiet it is, and also, what an absolute study in energy management their show is.
thank you very much for this Mover.....as a canadian, and retired RCAF CF-18 maintainer, i appreciate you taking the time to go through the report from DFS. RIP Capt Casey
"Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth,
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wing's"
AVN going to the F18s soon here
Tragic, sad, should never have been a loss of life. Cmon Canada, your showpiece demonstration team deserves (much!) better!
As an air cadet from Moose Jaw, the home of the Snowbirds, I want to thank you for doing this in such a professional way. The Snowbirds and the plane itself have been getting a lot of hate lately because of this crash. And i do understand why people would send hate to the plane for not being functional, but these crashes always happen. With you explaining it in a way that people can understand it, i just want to say thank you. Everyone in Moose Jaw was hit hard by this, and with you showing this kind of respect towards the incedent it makes me happy to see such a nice community. RIP Capt Casey.
100 percent agree with your assessment. The Tutor should have been retired 30 years ago, we use the Hawk as our current trainer (MB seats) and if they had been in one of those i truly believe Jenn would be alive.
Thank you for your input on this tragic incident. Your advice to stop demonstrations with outdated aircraft is valid. I hope they rethink using these aircraft and others this old in the future. Thanks again C.W. Your insight is valuable.
As a space craft builder (lego) and commander of a large space fleet (also lego) I just want to say; Please don't ever back down from your stance on safety. I'm incredibly proud of any service member who stands up to unsatisfactory safety measures / policies.
Thanks Mover. Met Capt. Casey multiple times at both Sprinbank airshow and at the Abbotsford airshow the summer before the accident. Have a Snowbirds pin on my jacket from her. While the Tutor is a classic I'm in the camp that they need new jets.
From a Canadian, thank you for addressing this and providing an experienced view on this accident. RIP Capt. Casey
As a former RAF Flight Lieutenant and ex airline flight crew, Capt Casey's death was tragic. I commend C.W. Lemoine,s professional review of the AIB report on the RCAF Snowbirds Fatal Mishap on 17th May 2020. Again, RIP Capt Casey.
"Better aircraft or better seats." Well said, sir.
Why an 'or'? I see no reason to not have both.
@@subduedpotato7216 It'd be redundant. "Better aircraft" implies better seats simply by the virtue of being better aircraft.
Appreciate your discussion of the mishap report. When I flew fam riders, always emphasized the what-if scenarios and how we would handle emergencies. Prayers for Capt Casey and her family.
Yours is a very well-known story that I brief for every FAM rider!
Ty sir. In 1968-69 I was in pilot training at Williams AFB. I had a very similar incident in a t-37. We survived because we flew straight and level in a glide. Number 2 engine had blown out a retaining ring causing double engine failure during a touch and go. I immediately trimmed nose down to the left so the plane would crash in a vacant field. My instructor initiated ejection and we both left the aircraft, our parachutes deployed, we did 1 swing and hit the ground. We had only bruises and sore ankles. I did get a pass on ejection procedures. RIP good pilot.
Congrats JMac...what a way to start your flying career! You probably went to Vietnam after graduation? Raindance/Boomer grad.
@@jcheck6 mm
Pp
What a sad event. I live in the US, but I always enjoyed the Snowbirds and their shows all of the way back to when I was a kid. RIP, Jennifer.
I trained on these things in the 1980s and they were old back then and should have been replaced decades ago. They only exist in the Snowbirds now and the Cockpit is a dog's breakfast. My instructor told me if I lost the engine at below 800 feet, just zoom, level off and punch out. Don't try to turn back or restart because the engine won't have time to spool up and give you enough thrust to save the aircraft anyway, and you'll be outside the safe ejection envelope if you waste time. Canada has always cheaped out on the military and our equipment and it's disgraceful. I'm also an Australian dual citizen and after also serving in the Australian military I can say that the approach to defense by the Governments of both countries is as different as chalk and cheese. The RAAF is very well equipped, with modern equipment and aircraft, including for the Roulettes display team, while the RCAF is buying old RAAF Classic Hornets to try to keep up their NATO and NORAD obligations while stalling on a replacement for the old Hornets. Most of the RCAF rotary wing assets are not suitable for their missions either. The Government of Canada and their apathetic approach to Defense is responsible for the death of this young Officer. The People of Canada support their servicemen and women and those who serve in the Defense Force deserve to be given the proper tools to do their jobs.
@Shon De Vet "well maintained " is great but "very outdated planes" are issues no matter how well we maintain the Tudors. Hell, the US has to reuse and fabricate special tools and parts for their old 1 plane demo teams, as these specialized tools, parts, shops stop running as it's not financially viable....parts stop getting made and some of the only 1 man demo planes are newer (and SELF-OWNED, not highly respected officers in the force anymore) than the Tudors were designed in the 50s (first flight in the 60s)...if you're are going to give our best pilots a chance to safely show off, TOGETHER ESPECIALLY, don't skimp on the plane they use. We have a neighbor (actually a great neighbor, but we get so caught up in jealousy, envy, fights with for some reason) to the south who customizes their Thunderbirds Air Force (F-16) and Navy Blue Angels (just got F-18 Super Hornets) for safety, which Canada can do too. Maybe our Snowbirds can even be able to keep their historical 11 jet flying team and outclass the Americans as the best in the world! While I do enjoy the Snowbirds, if you've seen the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds, the roar of those Turbofan General Electric's in the 16 and Turbofan General Electric's in the 18 just give me goosebumps. Who knows, but I've been to 2 Snowbird shows/year and it's time for a change up.
We can do better if we'd just invest in this!!! We just have to be willing to accept the Americans and their crashes over the years!! 🇨🇦
The fact is, we will eventually need to upgrade from a nearly WW2 era plane if we want the Snowbirds to continue
The RCAF doesn't have the all in one fighter that can last decades like they want. Probs stalling for time for the other designs to appear (UK and American next gen fighters)
Rotary assets not suitable? The only time I've had this talked about was during Afghanistan in higher altitude the griffin was not powerful enough for a full load. The sea kings were fucking shit for a long time and are mostly phased out by now. If anything an equivalent to the venom is what we'd need (UH1Y).
And while we still use old P3s they've been reliable planes as they've already been through I think 3 engine upgrades, and new wings, with consistent upgrades for the past 11 years
@@invertedv12powerhouse77 they have been using BAe Hawks for years for their NATO FTC program. They could simply get more Hawks if they wanted to modernize the Snowbirds. The Hawk is already in inventory and support services are in place.
The ct114 needs to be replaced tho I agree. Some planes can be modified and fixed to literally last forever but some can't, and this plane can't.
Thank you very much for making this video. I live in Kamloops BC & was a partial witness to this incident, I was looking away the moment of the punch-out & when the impact with the ground occurred. I was looking back seconds after impact. Within an hour later I had to travel to that part of town for a meeting & saw from a distance the carnage on the street the aircraft crashed. I hope to never see anything like that again. This was a very traumatic event for those on that street & the people living their trying to enjoy their day only to have it come crashing down on them.
I seriously hope, but doubt, the government will heed the lessons learnt here to make sure 0-0 ejection seats are a minimum requirement for all ejection seats going forward. I also echo all your recommendations you shared at the end of the video.
Cheers from Kamloops BC
Spot on analysis Mover. I hope this resonates with people who can make a change and put these brave pilots and crew in safer conditions while serving their country.
Excellent review of the report and analysis. I was a young instructor in Moose Jaw when a squadron mate with a student on a formation flight test was one of these incidents in the report where turning back resulted in an off field crash. Fortunately both pilots survived. The Instructor realized through the first half of the turn that he wasn’t going to make it back. He levelled the aircraft and initiated a second small zoom (in reality just levelling it off). The student ejected within the envelope while the instructor was just outside the envelope but luckily the ‘chute opened and in the first swing he landed in a snow filled ditch. Injuries were limited to a minor concussion where his knee slammed into his face. He was lucky. Has his seat in his basement. Now the ejection seat are (I believe) are the 4th iteration of the ejection seat. The ones I flew in the 80’s were the third iteration. There are still old and the same basic platform with incremental improvements. I believe Low Key in a forced landing pattern for the Tutor was around 1000 ft AGL. Any old Tutor drivers can correct me.
Concur, they need to update. We have the Hawks. It would take much to add a few to the fleet and paint them in the classic Snowbird colours.
I hate watching these mishap review videos Mover, but I watch them anyway. I feel it's important that you do them. You handle them respectfully, and professionally. Thank you. Rest easy Captain Casey.
As a retired Navy, and current contractor Egress Tech this hurts to see. My company had a tragedy a little while back where we had an aircraft go down and lost both aviators. Not sure what happened in that situation, will be watching for the report. Rest In Peace to all
As a Canadian, thanks for doing this. It's inexcusable that this team is still in the Tutor. We own dozens of CT-155 Hawks that our Hornet pilots train with... why they aren't in these or the CF-18s is beyond me.
We don't own the Hawks, they are leased, every one of them. Also we can barely get our CF-18s running to do normal day to day stuff. Have you seen how many times the Demo CF-18s have been down the last few years on the airshow circuit? These are the CF-18s with the least hours on them also.
Man this one really stings. Condolences to her family and friends. RIP Hero.
Umm, how is she a “hero”?
@@BeheadTheGovernment_andReboot she signed the dotted line, every member of the military is a hero in that way. For the vast majority of those who join the military, that one action may be the only heroic thing they do and believe me when I tell you this, it is not an easy thing to do. Look at my picture, I was a firefighter for years. I never once pulled a baby from the water or rescued a damsel from the window of a burning structure, but I too signed the line knowing that action may lead to my demise in the effort to give service to my community. Not the same as the military by any stretch but still something the majority of people will never do voluntarily.
@@lonnywilcox445:Very well said, and thank you for Your service. 🇺🇲
@@lonnywilcox445 First responders, leos, ems, military, SAR teams all badass mofos, Thank you for your service. US
@@lonnywilcox445 Being around the team, and seeing the bird strike herself (she called it apparently), she had to know they were in trouble. She could have bailed out on her own, but waited as part of the team to try and let the pilot do his thing. Which turned out to be trying to save civilian lives before their own lives. That's f***ing heroic, and her being a willing participant (she knew how to eject on her own) makes her a f***ing hero. I don't know that every person who signs a line is automatically heroic, but if in the heat of the moment putting your life on the line for others isn't heroic, then I don't know what is. Two heroes and a lose-lose choice.
Great analysis Mover. Thanks. And Lonny, I appreciate the sentiment and salute you for your willingness to help and serve others.
Thank you very much for getting the full report. As usual, the RCAF typically only releases the epilogue on their website. It is my understanding that the full report needs to be requested.
Canadian DND PR people are awesome! I used to be part of numerous aerospace student initiatives and groups at university and every time that we needed a speaker, they always delivered awesome RCAF people for the occasion. RIP Capt. Casey
I live one hour from Kamloops BC, and have always been a huge fan of the Snowbirds, and I appreciate you making this video. This one hurt, when it happened, and it still hurts. RIP Captain Casey.
C.W. Lemoine to give you an idea of how old this aircraft is....My Father did his flight training on this plane before he did fighter lead in training on F86 sabers then moved to 104 starfighters. Then instructed on this airframe. My younger brother then did his primary flight training on the same aircraft....On a interesting side note...My brother and Father did get to fly together as pilots on a training mission in C130's
My Dad was one of the first instructors of instructors on the Tutor and then ended up on CF-86's and then on CF-104's as well. I agree with Mover that the Canadian Government is negligent in providing decent equipment to it's aircrew and we are currently trying to replace our 45 year old CF-18's with 40 year old Aussie F-18's because we can't get our shit together to order up F-35's. By the time they replace the CF-18's, the US will be flying 6G fighters. Two service members have had their lives destroyed because our politicians can't do their jobs and keep our troops outfitted. It is pathetic.
The age of the aircraft had nothing to do with the accident.
A modern Airbus A320 was taken out by bird strikes.
A modern Airbus A330 with flight envelope protection was taken out by a stall.
None of those aircraft had the benefits of any sort of escape system.
Because of the extreme skill of the first pilot, everyone survived.
Because of the extreme negligence of the second pilot, everyone died.
You can’t put everything on the government. Government procurement is a nightmare. But ultimately it’s up to DND where a lot of that funding goes. It’s up to the RCAF whether they want a demonstration squadron. It’s up to 431 Squadron whether they want to continue operations. And it’s up to the individual pilots who ALWAYS have the last word as to whether to accept the risk or not.
I have flown much older, much less capable aircraft over much more inhospitable terrain and have indeed lost an engine roughly the same time this pilot did and did not have the benefit of an ejection seat. I’m alive and unharmed because I did not stall the aircraft until it came to rest on the surface.
If you stall a plane with higher wing loading than the Tutor, it’s going to snap upside down and it doesn’t matter what seats you have. Even the CF-18 in Lethbridge the pilots barely escaped.. and they changed the operations, not the aircraft, to reduce that risk.
@@steveburton5825 The F-35 is worthless. 1) It doesn't have the capabilities of the various Aircraft it was designed to replace, and 2) the Maintenance hours to Flights hours are horrendous.
Governments now want more BANG for their 'bucks' in that 'Single Mission Aircraft' are things of the past. Now, every Aircraft, including Transport Aircraft, HAVE to be Multi-Mission capable, or they are not worth the money to buy them. This is WRONG!! I for one would rather have an Aircraft that is a MASTER at the one thing it is designed to do, rather than a 'Jack of all trades.'
@Jerry V The “Jack of all trades” NONSENSE didn’t work with TFX; it doesn’t appear to have worked with JSF which is now ancient, still plagued, and hideously expensive.
It would be interesting to know what is the TRUE objective of JSF, because it certainly isn’t as was stated.
@@bravo0105 The "TRUE objective?" So that Lockheed Martin can make BILLIONS in cost over-runs and modifications (to make the plane do what they said it would do in the first place).
I'm of the opinion that ALL Military contracts should STOP being 'Cost PLUS' and just be "Fixed price."
Cost PLUS contracts just give the Contractor NO incentive to do the job right the first time. It DOES give them the incentive to get extra money (read PROFIT!) for things that SHOULD have been included in the original proposal. IMHO, Fixed Price contracts make the Contractor bear the burden of the QUALITY of their products... not the Government.
As one of the current technicians at 431 squadron thank you for your respect for Captain Jennifer Casey. All of us have felt the sorrow that came with what happened, we do what we can everyday to ensure the safety of everybody involved. Your opinions are your own and I can't change what you think. The video is very professional and informative for those not involved. Clear skies and fair winds.
So sad it’s always hard when anyone is lost, but there’s always something harder when it’s a demonstration team. May God give her friends and family peace.
What an amazing summary. Thank you. As a Canadian ex-pat, I can only hope that Canadians see this and advocate more safe equipment for their service personnel.
Having followed you for a number of years, I have to first say thank you for this comprehensive debrief and insight into this tragic incident. As a Canadian and long time fan of the Snowbirds, I can say this incident was troubling and affected many due to the loss of Captain Casey. Many of us up here share your opinion; it'd really be nice to see the Squadron finally move on from the Tutor... It's long overdue. Cheers C.W. - I have so much more respect for you hearing your candor and feeling your honesty in this clip. Keep doing what you do; you do it well. - EAF79_GenX (NV - G) (79 Squadron Virtual Royal Air Force), Calgary, Canada
You may not see this mover, but In 2019 the snow birds lost a aircraft at the Atlanta motor speedway airshow, the pilot ejected and survived, but it was a scary accident
This was the report from the Atlanta crash.
"The investigation also determined that the mostly likely cause of the parachute malfunction was the result of one or more parachute pack retaining cones having been released prior to the activation of the MK10B Automatic Opening Device. Entanglement of the suspension lines with parts of the ejection seat immediately followed ultimately disrupting the proper opening of the parachute canopy. Inspection of all related Tutor Aviation Life Support Equipment was subsequently carried out to ensure fleet airworthiness."
Excellent analysis. The RCAF is severely behind in its fighter replacement program, and just recently updated it's SAR assets. Replacement of the Snowbirds' aircraft were very low on the totem pole.
"Severely behind" is an understatement. Everybody else would have 6th gen nearing retirement by the time our govt. even gives a definite answer for what to do with F-35 procurement.
@@DeNihility I don’t even think we’re getting the F-35
@@jameson1239 Are we still going for Australias old Hornets?
@@Rayman1971 the competition is between three aircraft the JAS-39 gripenE, the F-35, and the block III super hornet
@@Rayman1971 Yes. 15 of 18 already delivered, 3 already in service (Wikipedia).
I went to school with Jennifer's mother in the North end of Halifax and my mother was in the same room has Jennifer's grandmother in a seniors care facility and I would listen to her grandmother talk about how proud she was of her granddaughter I never got to meet Jennifer but the people of the North end of Halifax mourned her death and had a parade in honor of our very own hero God bless the Casey family and her Beautiful mother Rose she was one amazing person and a proud North ender !
This incident hit me a little harder as I met and spoke with Captain Casey at a few airshows here in CA. World is small and life is too short. Thanks for your review and insight Mover.
Honest and clear review.The Tutor belongs in a museum or a flying collection.RIP,Captain.This should have never happened,they deserved better.My condolences.
Your closing statement is professional and profound, Capt. Richard MacDougall, and public affairs officer Capt. Jennifer Casey are Canadian Heros. The injury and death of are Heros is profoundly saddening. Canadians take great pride in the RCAF Snowbirds ability to perform world class aerobatic maneuvers in the CT-114 Tutor and in the ability of those members of the RCAF that support and keep them flying. Your perspective regarding the use of the Tutor highlights the additional danger flying the Tutor places on the RCAF Snowbird pilots, crew and passengers. While there are plans to replace the Tutor, no replacement is expected until after 2026. Unless grounded the Tutor will with upgrades fly until a replacement is found.
Nice, detailed breakdown on this incident. Thank you for keeping to the facts, and it's obvious your heart is in it for the right reasons. It's sad that you have to, but keep highlighting stuff like this so more people understand the truth, and how these deaths can be avoided. Like everywhere, in Canada, it's all about the money.
Jenn was such a amazing girl and will always be missed. We will never forget your smile and the joy you brought to the SB and the public ❤
Thank you from the bottom of my heart on a very well and professional presentation of the facts. As most are aware this was a very devastating time for the RCAF. I work at 1 Canadian Air Division in Winnipeg and it was a very somber mood the day this happened. Capt Casey was well known and had worked with many members of 1 CAD. She will be for ever missed. Per Ardua ad Astra, RIP Jen.
Great "My Thoughts". The entire time you were reviewing the analysis I wondered why they had such a narrow envelop of operation for the ejection seat on demonstration aircraft. Even the report ignores the operational shortcomings of the emergency equipment.
I want to congratulate you for your excellent presentation of such narrow margin ejection in a Canadian Tutor. You are a pro and I like that! The Argentine Air Force had an excellent trainer such as the twin engined Morane Saulnier MS-760 Paris II which was manufactured in Argentina's Fábrica Militar de Aviones (FMA).
The MS-760 was flown by many generations of outstanding Argentine fighter pilots but were grounded after 40 years of service and constant updates.
I became a Private Pilot in 1970 and I had a wonderful carrier flying 707s, 737s, 747-200s and 747SP!
Currently I am a Lawyer and practice Civil and Family Law.
My condolences to the Canadian Family
Farewell Jenn. You will never be forgotten.
jen who?
@@marshie1337 whoops
Who's Jen
@@behindthen0thing mistake corrected
Thank you for walking through the series of events that led to this incident. Your candour and professionalism to not second guess the pilots decisions is greatly appreciated. And you’re spot on to question why these planes are still in the air and should be taken seriously by the Canadian government.
Prayers and thoughts to Captain Jenn Casey, her family and fellow Snowbirds. Being a former USAF Parachute Rigger 88-92 at Nellis home of the Thunderbirds, this hits home. Movers review appears to be dead on. Sadly the envelope for that aircraft is more limited than the ACESII in the F-16. I can remember the four times we had a down aircraft up range, we would immediately take the AF tail number to find out who packed the chute. Then it was a long painful wait to find out did they make a successful ejection?? Thank God we each of those pilot later made appearance at the Parachute Shop. I only with this would have been a different story. RIP Jenn, you will be remembered!!
Retired USN rigger here. I know just what you mean.
On the older seats and parachutes being worn to the aircraft, I recently transitioned from the Viper (and the ACES II) to the A-4N and TA-4J. The Skyhawk's got an Escapac 1G-3, good seat for its time with a good reputation (YF-16 had an Escapac). The thing I was surprised by and still find suboptimal is that the chute on the Escapac IS the seatback cushion. It (and the survival kit) join to the seat with a lock pin and the manual release option is much similar to the Viper, but it's slower. The problem with the older seats is that often times, the times you need to get out with a quickness, you're either right on the edge or already out of envelope. RIP Capt Jenn Casey.
Thanks Mover for this, your experience with the T-38 (another 60's) make sense of what sadly happened that day.
Thank you for publishing this debrief. Your contribution offers insight that is unlikely to be available en masse otherwise.
Keep up the good work you do. 🙏
I do hope this incident inspires changes/updates at RCAF 431 Squadron. May the loss of Capt. Jennifer Casey not be in vain, and may Capt. Casey rest in peace.
Thanks for covering this mishap. This was a really sad event, RIP Jenn Casey. Truly sad to see another avoidable fatality, especially when its due to old equipment whose service life keeps getting extended over and over again.
and it is why these Snowbirds should be retired. They are not safe.
Thanks for this review Mover. This was my first exposure to your channel. Very respectful in all of your comments. Much appreciated.
Thanks for covering this. It hit alot of us here in Halifax and CFB Shearwater hard. Bad enough to loose ppl during war but even worst during peace time and under such inspirational missions when our countries are dealing with the situation. Thanks with much respect from N.S. Canada
As a Canadian and a brand new subscriber thanks for covering this,it was pretty devastating thankfully they flew over our house the day before.
Oh and you are correct,those planes are way to old
Thank you for covering this.
Agreed. Thanks Mover.
Very detailed analysis of this accident. Thank you very much. Just read an article that the Snowbirds are scheduled to fly the Tutor till 2030…
Excellent review Mover. You hit the nail on the head... give them the tools to do the job. A functioning zero-zero ejection seat is the last thing that will potentially save a pilot.
Thanks, Mover, for covering this, and making it digestible to those of us who like to fly but aren't pilots.
I've watched you do several videos explaining mishap reports. That can't be easy for you as a pilot. As you were explaining all the issues with the ejection seats, I was thinking of Mezr the whole time. I also agree with every word you said at the end about the planes and seats.
RIP Captain Casey. We send our condolences to her family, friends, her squadron mates in the Snowbirds, and the entire RCAF.
Your thoughts ("My thoughts") at the end were perfect imo----I couldn't agree more. Those aircraft need to be mothballed, definitely. Sure, they've been very well maintained, but once a plane gets past a certain age, all the maintenance in the word doesn't matter anymore. Again, great analysis Mr. Lemoine.
Living in Kamloops and seeing the crash scene the accident really hit home. Thanks so much for a very well done explanation for what happened on that day. VERY well done summary.
What a tragedy, this is heartbreaking, thank you for covering this. Captain Jenn Casey is a a devastating loss for the unit and our forces, I also have her family in my thoughts. It seems to me as a civilian that this is the way the Canadian Forces get treated and how they're seen, they are asked to do tremendously difficult things regularly and get absolutely no support or funding. Just tragic.
Won't change. The public does not make defence budgets a priority so the Government doesn't.
Hell many in the public think of the CF as "peacekeepers" and actual combat missions are not to be supported.
Maybe if more civillians in this country cared the Government would.
You government refuse too spend any money on the armred forces and use old outdated equipment
I was an instructor and check pilot on both the Tutor in the mid 60s , and on exchange in the T-38 from 70 to 73. I have well over 1000 hours on each type, and for the time, they were wonderful aircraft. You are correct in assuming thzt we practiced a forced landing pattern, and although I can't remember all the altitudes, I can remember that high ket was over the button 2500 agl,, low key was around 1500,downwind, and final key was 1000 agl at 90 degrees, with the goal of landing on the first 1/3 of the tunway . In Moose Jaw, on the deck past the departure end of the runway, throtteling back to maintain 175 kts. I experienced a compressor stall. Immediately entered a climbing turrn for the downwind low key (while depressing the airstart button). I was able to make low key just a little low on altitude, so I delayed extending the gear and was able to make final key on the money, for a normal, deadstick landing. Did I tell you thatI think the Tutor and the Talon are fantastic aircraft, and I would hop in either one of them tomorrow,
BTW, when we started flying them in1965, they still had the ballistic ejection seat, so the 0 ft and 60 knot seat was a considerable improvement.. I can't remember the exact minimum altidude ejection, but anything below 1000, in theTutor or the Talon with bank or sink, was not survivable. The ejection sequence was, raise handles, which blew the canopy, and squeeze the triggers, which initiated the ejection whether the canopy was gone or not. I don't remember anything abuot a delay, but that could have been added.
A turning stall on the Tutor, could put you on your back in a heartbeat, so the trick was, to be respectful. You could fly close formation with your fingertips. The aircraft control was superb. I know the aircraft is old, but I wouldent have a moment of hesitation for the opportunity to hop in one and do an hour of aerobatics,including some 5G vertical stuff.
I am very sorry for the loss of the one crewmember, and the injuries to the pilot. Just from looking at the video, I was surprised he survived. Sometimes, all we have is luck.
I complement you on your respectfull review. I also envy you that you still get to fly the T-38. We did a lot of formation flying in them back in the 70s. Fond memories.
Bob
Great analysis. Thank you. As a Canadian living in Toronto I have watched the Snowbirds for 50 years. I continually ask the same question. Why do we ask these amazing pilots to risk their lives in 60 year old trainer jets. I would not drive a 60 year old Ferrari at the limits. Yet every year we bring another group of pilots out in 60 year old planes to entertain us. We'd scoff if this was Russia. This is Canada damn it. Time to buy this amazing team a modern ride.
Thank you for your analysis and final thoughts. As a Canadian whose family has had two generations of RCAF pilots including #7 Snowbird -1986/87 and a son who aspires to a three generation pilot, as a father, I don’t want my son flying the Tutor for the exact reasons you stated. I also don’t the CF18 is a much better choice as these airframes are being pushed beyond their intended service life. Though the ejection seat of the CF18 is far superior to the Tutor.
The budgets that our military gets always falls short of what is needed. We’ve been waiting for new fighters for over a decade!
Rest In Peace Captain Casey. You are missed and won’t be forgotten.
Apparently the Canadian government has known for 20 years that replacing the Tutors was a matter of some urgency, and at one time the plan was to retire them in 2010. But several successive governments - formed by multiple different Parties - have all flaked out when they saw the price tag. The current plan is to keep the Tutors through _at least_ 2030. _Maybe_ with some upgrades, _if_ the currently-planned avionics & safety update program actually happens (the cost of the modernization keeps going up, a process that often results in _no_ work getting done because it's too expensive).
Thank you for that very well done report on the crash. I was at home in Kamloops that morning that occurred, and the affect it had on our city was profound. I am very proud of how our community responded in support of the Snowbirds, and it was hard to watch the Tudors sitting on the tarmac at the airport for months after the crash waiting for clearance to fly again. The Snowbirds are a much loved Canadian hallmark, but I agree with everyone here that has said it is time to take the Tutor out of service, and replace them with a modern aircraft. Capt Casey, we shall remember you always.
They're highly respected here in the US also, I've seen them fly at several air shows and they were top notch.
Condolences to your community and the Snowbirds themselves.
Canada is notorious for taking forever to update or retire old equipment/vehicles. These aircraft should've been retired long ago. Such an unnecessary loss.
And even longer for the populous to realized they are losing their charter rights.
The age of the aircraft was not causal to the accident. Had it been brand new the same sequence would have occurred
That was a perfect mix of reviewing the facts and you articulating your expert opinion. At the beginning of this video I hoped you would speak freely after reviewing the investigation’s report. I bow down to you sir; your expertise and your wise opinions are much appreciated.
I remember this happened as the blue angels and thunderbirds were doing their joint flyovers across the country. Really sad. Especially because they were trying to raise the morale of the people up there. Won’t be forgotten.
I really appreciate this. I have been a fan of the Snowbirds for my whole life and I thank you for a really professional and respectful overview of the incident.
1.15.2 & .3 was though to listen to. I know many of these people from my work with airshows as photography and video.... thanks Mover for giving a honest, fair, and respectful analysis.
Clear skies Jen, clear skies.
Nice analysis, Mover. I like the clinical analysis and the clear, nonjudgemental approach along with a good explanation for the necessary components of the report so nonaviators can understand
Well done with the analysis and difficult commentary. It was respectful and considerate. We need new jets period. Thank you Mover
As a Canadian (not a pilot) I have always had an interest in the RCAF and the Snowbirds. I believe the Tutors were scheduled for replacement about 15 years ago but that obviously did not happen. Like you observed, I have often wondered just how many years of age and obsolescence of equipment has to occur before bad events overtake the technology. Regretfully, the RCAF had and has a responsibility to supply to service members a technology platform that is consistent with the modern and best vehicle of safety and operation. In the case of today's Snowbirds, the RCAF has just released the 2021 Snowbirds show schedule to be flown with the same 61 year old CT-114 Tutor Jets.
Thank you for your review and observations on the accident report.
This captures my thoughts perfectly, I applaud you for saying it out loud. The Canadian Forces, and by extension the Government of Canada have failed these brave individuals. It saddens me, but I say this as a lifelong snowbirds fan, retire the Tudor or disband the 431.
Pretty sure the pilot's understand the limitations of their equipment and willingly accept all additional risk involved. Also sure there is no shortage of applicants to serve on the Snowbird team. If the pilots decide the risk is too high, they will refuse to fly and the team will be discontinued.
Why should the gov. of Canada allows the fans to determine the fate of the team?
@@buckmurdock2500 Their no reason the snowbirds fly these old outdated death traps they need too be replaced or the unit disbanded
Better aircraft or better seats... poignant words, my friend. Words that those upstairs would be wise to heed. The day the incident occurred I watched a video of the plane approaching the camera of a bystander (at this point, nobody had seen what caused the crash) and I saw the birds trajectory. I contacted the Canadian Air Accident people and they didn't respond for over a month and they then told me I'd contacted the wrong branch as it was a different department that deals with these types of incidents. Here in the UK they would've been back in contact within a matter of hours.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge and thoughts in this video, it's really appreciated
As a Canadian I totally agree with your conclusions. It’s been a political football during many governments tenure. We need to fix the problem or disband the snowbirds. Great presentation
Our military needs a government that will stand behind it and fund it properly. Canada for Canadians support our forces so we can stand with the rest of the world's top military forces as we have always done! Scrap the snowbirds are you nucken futs! Buy JAS39 E and get the Birds new rides. Our national pride needs a overhaul!
Canadian here also, and I agree completely. Either modernize the demonstration team or scuttle the program.
@@GITMachine Unfortunately this is a problem throughout the Western world: politicians are very quick to give the armed forces missions, but very slow to provide the services with the resources to actually perform those missions.
@@davemingle6743 Not nuts. It sounds unthinkable, but that starkness is necessary. If you don't fund the nice thing, you shouldn't have the nice thing. They want the nice thing, it's time they paid for it. The jets aren't even really cheap. They just were paid for decades ago. Newer kit with easier better maintenance and better margins will always save... something. Lives, definitely, probably money as well.
@@Philistine47 This has been a systemic issue throughout history.
Very, very sad. From experience of similar jets in the RAF I'd say you needed 2000' to actually get back on the runway but now I know there was a built-up area ahead I imagine that was never on his mind. He just wanted to point the jet in a safe direction and step over the side. I'm sure he saved a lot of lives. We can't second guess his actions but the Human Factors points will be there to be found and hopefully something good will come out of this. A more modern display aircraft would be top of my list too. A tragic loss.
@@cb2638 Why do you think he opted to turn left?
The fact pilot's can consider the outcome to civilians on the ground in the midst of a emergency is nothing short of heroic in my book.
Thank you for the review, Mover. RIP Capt Casey.
This one hit close to home as I'm from about an hour south of Comox, where they practice, and I have seen them countless times between that area and Cold Lake
Thank you for providing a service to many on this subject.
Another thorough and professional presentation and analysis, Mover.
I am somewhat surprised that the AIB report and you didn't discuss the following: it is apparent from the video that the mishap aircraft not only experienced accelerated aerodynamic stall but also spin entry. Despite the fact that the aircraft only executed 270° of turn in the incipient spin before recovery to the ensuing unrecoverable dive, precious altitude was unfortunately lost while severe nose down attitude and sink rate were exacerbated. I acknowledge that this might sound like "Monday morning quarterbacking", but the purpose of this exercise is to learn something that might prevent similar loss of life and serious injury under similar circumstances in the future.
This observation might be useful: if the mishap pilot in his laudable attempt to steer the aircraft toward a less populated area had done so in a modestly nose low, more shallowly banked turn than he used, he might have avoided the accelerated stall and spin entry that virtually condemned the crew to an out-of-the-envelope ejection. I realize that things were happening very quickly for him, and that muscle memory would have been accumulated in similar looking situations but with a high power setting that would have permitted completion of such a turn without stalling/spinning. We simply don't train to do low altitude, high bank angle turns at idle power. In an emergency situation like this, trained reflexes automatically take over. In this case, that may have sealed their fate.
I extend my most heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of all concerned with this heartbreaking tragedy. Long live Canada and the deep friendship that endures between our two countries.
LtCol J.D. "Bear" Owen (Ret)
Between this and your analysis on the 737MAX ..you nail it!
Well said CW. I think your assessment is a good one.
It's been tough on the Snowbirds and their families along with the country. Captain Casey was well liked and loved being assigned to the Snowbirds. She knew the risks and hardship being away from family and friends for extended periods. She was hooked and was living her dream job.
The CT-114 is a lightweight basic military jet trainer that is out of date and due for retirement. It would be cost prohibitive to implement an updated ejection seat for a side by side cockpit that has structural bulkhead limits.
The aircraft itself is a safe platform. Bird strikes occur and are the cause of fatal accidents around the world in all types of civilian and military aircraft. Accidents are going to occur. The RAF BBMF (Battle of Britain Memorial Flight), which fly 75 year old aircraft such as the Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane take the same risks as the Snowbirds do. These are serving RAF pilots and crews. And they have no bailout ejection seats. It's something to reflect upon. It is high risk and the odds do not favor the crews.
Given that fact the RCAF invests millions of dollars in its flight crews, it should be using the very best and updated safety technology.
Unfortunately, the government has failed to update the aircraft used by 431 Sqdn for 20 plus years spanning 4 different elected governments. All wanted to save money while still keeping the iconic Snowbirds in the air. RCAF Command is partly to blame because it failed to push for an updated platform. Operating the F-18 is 8 to 9 times the cost per flight hour compared to the CT-114 and does NOT including airshow costs, depending on how many cycles on the airframe and engine(s). The J85 is a mere fraction of the cost to overhaul compared to the GE-404 (X2).
To put this in perspective, in 2016, a RCAF report estimated the entire cost of flying 64 airshows across North America in 2016 was 4.3 million 🇨🇦 dollars including maintenance and overhaul reserves. That's the cost of two GE-404 overhauls on one CF-18. The incentive to keep the CT-114s flying is not difficult to comprehend.
THE RCAFs CF-18 fleet is not a viable candidate due to airframe fatigue and cycle limits that remain and a key reason Canada acquired 20+ used F-18s from the RAAF as a stop gap until a F-18 replacement is approved and procured. This won't be decided, let alone delivered until at least 2024/25. The Hawk CT-155 would be a good choice but the 17 airframes the RCAF operate, are accumulating high airframe hours. They will eventually need replacing and perhaps, because they are still in production from BAE, could acquire 17 + 10.
The only other possible "low" cost type that might be considered is the KAI TA-50 made by South Korea. It uses the GE-404 engine, the same one used in the CF-18, which might be possible to reuse, saving millions in the process.
In any event, it's long overdue to either retire the CT-114 and replace it or disband 431 Sqdn.
RIP Captain Casey.
Cap W E Johns - the writer of the "Biggles" stories - was taught to fly during WW1. One of the things drummed into him was: NEVER turn back to the airfield after an engine problem on take-off.
Because you lose a lot of energy in a turn
Even in today's a/c
UNLESS you need to avoid a hevily populated area. Which is what happened.
@@markhorton3994 Not quite.
There's a river dead ahead / to the right of the runway.
Turning back was known NOT to work in the Tutor.
Pilot did so regardless.
Not avoiding habitation, but turning left : towards it.
@@Wannes_ Interesting. I thought the report said that the turn was a failed attempt to avoid population. I must be wrong.
@@markhorton3994 He turned left, while the river was to the right. There could be a million reasons he made that choice, and we may never know, but from an observers perspective, it seemed like climbing, changing the aircraft course towards / beyond the river, and ejecting, would have been a better choice. But I won't pretend to know better since I was not the pilot in that moment.
Thank you for your balanced, fact-based review of the full accident investigation. I especially appreciate your practical experience and lack of speculation in regards to this tragic incident.
As a Canadian, you were very respectful in your thoughts. I totally agree with you, asking aircrews to fly 60 yr old equipment in very demanding environments. It would be like racing in a 2020 Nascar race with a 1960 Ford Falcon against today's nascar cars. And your sponsor expects you to win the Daytonna 500.
Yup. Racing the Daytona 500 with no HANS Device.
utter garbage, it's nothing like that! The aurcraft are flown within that aircrafts particular service window, that can never be beyond the capabilities of that aircraft. Thus your comparison is total and utter bunk
@@ynotnilknarf39 if the Snowbirds were equipped with 0 - 0 ejection seats we wouldn't be having this conversation today.
@@CWLemoine Yet more nonsense, you can race without helmets and it be safe, you apply the safety to the situation and the equipment and you don't push beyond that safety envelope, more PPE equals MORE risk taking, this is human behaviour everywhere, you cannot avoid it no matter who you are, and this = more incidents and more harm. this is health and safety basics.
people like you don't understand and are not qualified to understand how PPE/some safety devices actually have a negative effect on overall safety as greater risks are taken due to the safety devices been adorned/in the minds of the wearer.
We see the extremes of this with helmet wearing in cycling, seatbelts in motorvehicles, hi-visibility vests/garments and one of the worst, helmets in sport generally, gridiron being the number one sport with the most severe head/brain injury problems, all due to adding a so called 'safety' device into the equation.
So please stop making comparisons that you are not remotely qualified to comment about!
@@ynotnilknarf39 How many hours do you have flying military jets? Asking for a friend.....
I am not a pilot, but I will argue that perhaps he was successful. He didn’t injure any other people. It so unfortunate that Captain Casey did not survive. Thank you for your service, but especially your input.
I don't understand why they say the turn was done to "avoid populated area". Wasn't there a very wide and straight river directly in front of them? Seems like pilot was trying to do the "impossible 180 turn" (that had already been disproven) and the turn actually put more people on the ground in danger. Despite this error, it is amazing that Canada still equips their national flight demonstration team with the oldest ejection seat system.
The exact trajectory of the plane from the point of wings level ejection would be completely random, this was not a capt. Sully ditching event. I’m assuming you wrote your comment from an armchair on a Monday morning.
@@ibcoull All accident reports are done after the fact (aka Monday morning), how else can preventable errors be identified.
As for your "Sully" comment, it's not about a water landing but staying straight and level to maximize recovery or successful ejection...with the additional benefit of the aircraft crashing into a river vs a populated neighborhood like it did. The report specifically advised against the turn back maneuver.
As long as people want to see them they will produce these shows. If people would stop buying tickets, they would have to retire these old birds. They sell tickets, right ? just guessing here. Maybe they give free demonstrations.......Don't know. Still , people should boycott these shows with obsolete planes. Dangerous enough with new ones.
I pray that if I ever find myself in that situation I remember that it's called The Impossible Turn for a reason. I concur with your assessment.
I've met her the day before she passed. May she dance with the angels now.
Where did you meet her ?