Tragic news has emerged as a helicopter pilot lost his life while bravely battling a wildfire in the Northwest Territories. The incident occurred on June 28 at the Fort Good Hope airport, where an aircraft operated by Great Slave Helicopters tragically crashed. The pilot, identified as Tom Frith, was fighting a blaze near the community located approximately 800 kilometers northwest of Yellowknife.
The team at Great Slave Helicopters extended their heartfelt condolences to Mr. Frith’s family and friends in both Yellowknife and Australia. The loss of a dedicated pilot is deeply felt by all those involved in the firefighting efforts.
According to wildfire information officer Mike Westwick, the chief coroner of the territory confirmed the pilot’s unfortunate passing while protecting Fort Good Hope. The community, which consists of around 500 residents, has been under an evacuation order since mid-June due to the escalating threat posed by the wildfire.
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As of July 1, the wildfire threatening the community had grown to over 82 square kilometers in size and remains classified as out of control. A state of local emergency is expected to remain in effect until July 13 as efforts continue to contain the fire and ensure the safety of all residents in the area.
