A small aircraft left the runway and crashed at the Portage la Prairie Airport on September 20, 2026, injuring two people. The incident occurred at approximately 4:10 p.m. during an airshow being held at the facility.
According to the Manitoba RCMP, the pilot reported a malfunction while attempting to take off. The problem forced the pilot to abort the departure, but the aircraft was unable to remain on the paved surface and veered off the runway before coming to rest.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene. Both individuals who sustained injuries were taken to a local medical facility for treatment. The RCMP are overseeing the investigation and have secured the area while they assess the cause of the malfunction.
The airshow, which draws aviation enthusiasts from the region, continued after the crash with additional safety checks. No further incidents were reported, and officials indicated that the event will resume normal operations once investigators complete their initial review.
Authorities have not released the identities of the pilot or the injured parties. The RCMP have asked anyone with additional information about the aircraft’s condition prior to the take‑off to come forward. The investigation will focus on mechanical factors that may have contributed to the aborted take‑off and subsequent runway excursion.
The crash adds to a series of recent aviation incidents in the province, prompting renewed attention to aircraft maintenance standards and emergency response protocols at public air events.