Canadian Transportation Safety Board (TSB) released its final annual report for on transportation occurrences in the air, marine, pipeline, and rail transportation sectors in 2023.
Air Transportation
In 2023, the Transportation Safety Board reported 1,020 air transportation occurrences, a 14% rise from the previous year’s 894. This included 182 accidents, a 10% increase from 166 in 2022. Of these, 19 were fatal, resulting in 33 fatalities, slightly down from 24 fatal accidents and 34 fatalities in 2022. Notably, commercial operator accidents surged by 38% from 56 in 2022 to 77 in 2023, while private operation accidents dropped from 108 to 103. Aviation incidents also saw an increase, with 838 reported in 2023 compared to 728 in 2022.
Marine Transportation
The TSB recorded 1,027 marine transportation occurrences in 2023, marking a 15% decrease from 1,212 in 2022. Accidents totaled 235, with nine being fatal, resulting in 18 fatalities—more than double the seven fatalities in 2022. A significant number of these fatalities (11 out of 18) were linked to commercial fishing, emphasizing ongoing safety concerns in this sector. Additionally, marine incidents decreased by 18%, with 792 reported in 2023 compared to the previous year’s 960.
Pipeline Transportation
In 2023, 68 pipeline occurrences were reported, all classified as incidents. There were no pipeline accidents, maintaining a trend as there was only one accident in 2022 and an average of one per year from 2018 to 2022. Among the 68 incidents, 17 involved product release, the lowest number in the past 11 years. There were no serious injuries or fatalities from federally regulated pipeline operations.
Rail Transportation
The TSB reported 1,235 rail occurrences in 2023, down 11% from 1,382 in 2022. Of these, 914 were rail accidents, resulting in 67 fatalities, a slight increase from 65 in 2022. Trespassing accidents were the leading cause of fatalities, accounting for 79% of all rail deaths, followed by crossing accidents. There were 87 accidents involving dangerous goods, down from 110 in 2022, with six resulting in product release. Unplanned/uncontrolled movements of rail equipment decreased to 37 occurrences from 51 in 2022. Additionally, 321 rail incidents were reported, a 14% decrease from 374 in 2022.
Conclusion
The TSB’s 2023 report highlights significant changes across various modes of transportation. While air and rail incidents saw an increase in certain areas, marine and pipeline incidents showed a notable decrease. Continuous monitoring and improved safety measures are essential to further reduce occurrences and enhance transportation safety in Canada.