A small plane crashed as the Abbotsford International Airshow was winding down Saturday afternoon.
Show organizers said the aircraft — a 1930s vintage de Havilland Dragon Rapide biplane — was being operated by a flight museum that was taking part in the event, offering flights for its members, when it failed to lift properly from the runway.
“The aircraft experienced difficulties on the airfield,” said organizers in a statement. “Many emergency responders already on the field for the Airshow responded immediately.”
A pilot and four passengers were onboard when the plane crashed at about 5:30 p.m.
Abbotsford police said three of those taken to hospital had non-life-threatening injuries, one was in serious condition and one was critical.
The Transportation Safety Board is conducting an investigation.
The airport said it expected to reopen at 9 p.m. Saturday.
The air show, which takes place at the airport, is expected to wrap up on Sunday.
