What Happened When a Small Plane Crashed at Montana Airport?

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What Happened When a Small Plane Crashed at Montana Airport?

Synopsis

On August 12, a small plane crash at Kalispell City Airport in Montana caused a massive fire but miraculously left all four passengers unharmed. Witnesses reported chaos as emergency crews responded to the scene. Investigators from the FAA and NTSB are looking into the incident, which disrupted operations at the airport.

Key Takeaways

  • Incident Date: August 12
  • Location: Kalispell City Airport, Montana
  • Aircraft Type: Small single-engine plane
  • Occupants: Four individuals aboard
  • Injuries: Two passengers with minor injuries

Kalispell City Airport in Montana witnessed a dramatic incident on August 12 when a small single-engine aircraft, carrying four individuals, collided with a stationary plane while attempting to land. The crash triggered a significant blaze, but fortunately, no major injuries were reported, as per local officials.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the mishap occurred around 2:00 p.m. local time. Initial investigations by the Kalispell Police Department and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revealed that the pilot may have lost control of the aircraft during the landing maneuver.

The plane is said to have skidded off the runway, crashing into several parked aircraft, which resulted in flames that rapidly spread across the tarmac and into adjacent grassy areas.

Thick, dark smoke and flames ascended into the sky, disturbing the tranquility of the small regional airport. Witnesses described a sound reminiscent of a loud explosion, which was followed by scenes of urgency as emergency response teams hurried to manage the fire.

Ron Danielson, a local inn manager and eyewitness, expressed that it felt like a loud drum was struck with full force.

Despite the ferocity of the fire, all four occupants of the aircraft managed to escape without serious harm. Kalispell Police Chief Jordan Venezio reported that two passengers suffered minor injuries and received treatment on-site.

Authorities confirmed that several aircraft parked nearby suffered damage due to the fire. Firefighters worked diligently to bring the flames under control before they could spread further. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are actively investigating the crash.

The flight had originated from Pullman, Washington, and the reason behind the pilot's loss of control is still being scrutinized. Limited operations have resumed at Kalispell City Airport, although a thorough assessment of the damage is ongoing.

Point of View

I emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in aviation incidents. This crash not only highlights the risks involved in flying but also the resilience of individuals in emergencies. The ongoing efforts by the FAA and NTSB are crucial in understanding the circumstances surrounding this incident.
NationPress
08/10/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the plane crash at Kalispell City Airport?
Initial investigations suggest that the pilot lost control during landing, but the exact cause is still under review by the FAA and NTSB.
Were there any injuries reported in the plane crash?
While all four individuals aboard managed to escape, two passengers sustained minor injuries and received treatment at the scene.
What measures are being taken following the incident?
Firefighters promptly controlled the blaze, and limited operations at the airport have resumed as authorities assess the damage.
Is the Kalispell City Airport open again?
Yes, limited operations have resumed at Kalispell City Airport, although a complete damage assessment is still in progress.
Where did the flight originate from?
The flight originated from Pullman, Washington, before the crash occurred at Kalispell City Airport.
Nation Press