Parachute was not deployed in fatal southern Alberta glider crash: TSB

An investigation into a fatal glider crash in southern Alberta last year confirmed the pilot managed to get out of his aircraft, but his parachute failed to open.

An investigation into a fatal glider crash in southern Alberta last year confirmed the pilot managed to get out of his aircraft, but his parachute failed to open.

The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) released its investigation report on the May 29 crash, south of Highway 7 between Diamond Valley and Okotoks.

It stated that approximately 30 minutes into the flight, the pilot “jettisoned the canopy and exited the aircraft,” but his parachute did not open. He subsequently died from his injuries.

Kerry Stevenson, 65, was identified as the pilot of the glider at the time.

The incident occurred during the Canadian National Soaring Championships, hosted by the Cu Nim Gliding Club.

The TSB report said the glider departed from the Black Diamond/Cu Nim Aerodrome just after 1 p.m.

The glider was in the air for around 23 minutes before it stalled and entered an “incipient spin.” Shortly after recovering from the spin, the canopy was ejected.