What Happened When a Small Plane Crashed at Montana Airport?

Synopsis
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.