Pilot Dies in Plane Crash During Remembrance Day Ceremony in Québec

A pilot died Wednesday morning when a small aircraft crashed in a wooded area in Saint-Georges, Quebec, during a Remembrance Day commemoration.

The fatal incident occurred at around 11 a.m. near 10th Street and the Saint-Georges airport, approximately 100 kilometres south of Quebec City, according to the Sûreté du Québec (SQ). Police confirmed the pilot, a man in his 60s, was the sole occupant of the aircraft and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Saint-Georges Mayor Manon Bougie told CBC via email that the crash happened as a formation of six aircraft performed the “Missing Man” formation during local ceremonies.

Witnesses reported that the plane broke away from the group, flew lower than the others, and appeared to nosedive before disappearing behind trees, with black smoke subsequently rising into the sky. The City of Saint-Georges said that the aircraft caught fire upon impact while on approach for landing.

“What has just happened is truly sad and terrible,” said Bougie in a news release. “Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones affected by this tragedy. All our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.”

Police and investigators respond to the crash site

Provincial police officers remain stationed at the site as the investigation continues. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has dispatched a team of investigators to examine the cause of the crash.

Political leaders across the province offered public condolences following the tragedy. Quebec Premier Paul St-Pierre Plamondon shared a message on social media regarding the incident.

“I would like to offer my sincere condolences to his family and loved ones,” Premier Plamondon wrote on X, adding that he is monitoring the situation alongside Domestic Security Minister Guy Jr. Lapointe.

Quebec Liberal Leader Charles Milliard also expressed sympathy on X, stating that his deepest condolences go out to everyone affected by the aircraft accident in Saint-Georges-de-Beauce.

What caused the Saint-Georges plane crash

What caused the plane to crash in Saint-Georges?

It remains unclear what caused the aircraft to go down. The Sûreté du Québec and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada are actively investigating the incident.

Were there other passengers on board the aircraft?

No, the pilot was flying alone when the crash occurred in the wooded area near the Saint-Georges airport.