June 26 2026

NUPGE is heartbroken by the tragic loss of three members of the wildland firefighter aviation community who died when their aircraft crashed while supporting wildfire suppression efforts near Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories. 

They lost their lives in the line of duty while helping protect Canadians from the growing threat of wildfires. 

We would like to express our deepest condolences to their families, loved ones, friends, colleagues, and the entire wildland firefighter community as they grieve this devastating loss.

“Every wildfire season, these dedicated professionals put themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities, our forests, and one another,” said Bert Blundon, President of NUPGE. “Their courage and commitment deserve our deepest respect and gratitude. We mourn their loss and stand in solidarity with everyone affected by this tragedy.”

Wildland firefighters and the aviation crews who support them perform some of the most dangerous work in Canada. They run toward the very emergencies from which others must flee, often in extraordinarily hazardous and rapidly changing conditions.

Today our thoughts are with their families, friends, and colleagues, and with everyone in the wildland and forest firefighter community who feels this loss.