AT 5:30 p.m., shortly after the airshow ended, Abbotsford International Airshow officials were notified of a crash on the Abbotsford International Airport runway. A 1930’s era biplane (deHaviland Dragon Rapide) crashed shortly after takeoff. 

The occupants of the aircraft included the pilot and four adult passengers. All five on board were taken to hospital by BC Ambulance Service by both air and road; three with non-life-threatening injuries, one in serious condition and one in critical condition.

As the Abbotsford International Airshow had just ended for the day, many emergency resources were already in place and able to respond immediately.  

The crash investigation is in the preliminary stages, and will be conducted by the Transportation Safety Board.  

The airshow will proceed as scheduled on Sunday.