A WestJet 737 aircraft hit a parked military aircraft on the air force base in Comox while attempting to depart on Wednesday, Aug. 9. (The Canadian Press)

By Ian Holmes

Plane evacuated

WestJet plane hits parked military aircraft at Comox air base, passengers evacuated

Aug 9, 2023 | 2:35 PM

COMOX — A WestJet flight bound for Edmonton didn’t get off the ground as the 737 aircraft hit a parked military plane on the ramp of 19 Wing Comox.

The incident happened on Wednesday, Aug. 9 during the noon hour.

In a statement, WestJet public relations manager Denise Kenny described the incident as minor, with its plane contacting the other aircraft while taxiing out for departure.

“At this time, emergency crews remain on scene and all guests and crew have been safely offloaded from the aircraft. There have been no reported injuries as a result of this incident.”

NanaimoNewsNOW is awaiting further information on the damage to both aircraft.

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The Edmonton-bound flight was cancelled.

19 Wing public affairs officer, Capt. Christine MacNeil said limited information is available at this time.

“We are aware of the incident with a civilian aircraft on the 19 Wing Comox ramp. At this time we have emergency response on scene and the actions of the teams are ongoing,” Macneil said.

Additional information from the Canadian Armed Forces is expected later today.

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ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes