Representation of a Gulfstream G100: Aviation Photo Crew / Shutterstock.com Canada’s Transportation Safety Board (TSB) will lead the investigation into the air ambulance accident that occurred in international waters off Nantucket, Massachusetts, on October 3.
The accident involved a Gulfstream G100 operated by Latitude Air Ambulance. The aircraft departed Bermuda carrying six people and was approaching the Boston area when the crew reported electrical difficulties, according to the TSB.
The aircraft then descended rapidly, and air traffic controllers lost contact with the flight south of Nantucket.
The TSB said Canada is responsible for the investigation because the aircraft was registered in Canada, in accordance with international agreements governing aviation accidents.
The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will participate as an accredited representative. Canadian investigators are also expected to be deployed in the coming days to assist with the search and recovery operation.
The TSB has opened investigation A26F0321 and said its work will focus on advancing transportation safety. The agency does not assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability as part of its investigations.
The accident occurred south of Nantucket as the aircraft traveled toward the Boston area after departing Bermuda. Investigators will examine the reported electrical problems and subsequent rapid descent as they work to establish what happened.
The TSB is an independent Canadian agency responsible for investigating accidents and incidents involving air, marine, pipeline and rail transportation. Its findings aim to identify safety issues and recommend measures to reduce the risk of similar accidents in the future.