The National Transportation Safety Board has released preliminary findings from its investigation into a fatal aircraft crash that occurred at Ryan Airfield near West Glacier on Aug. 12.
The single-engine aircraft was attempting to land when it crashed, killing the pilot, who was the sole occupant of the plane. It marked the fourth fatal crash at the airfield and the second deadly incident there during the summer.
According to the NTSB report, the pilot made multiple landing attempts before the fatal crash occurred.
The plane attempted to land twice but bounced both times during the initial approaches. On the third landing attempt, the aircraft's right wing clipped a tree located next to the runway.
The impact with the tree, which occurred 55 feet above ground level, caused the plane to roll and flip upside down before nose-diving into the terrain.
The NTSB's preliminary report provides initial findings as investigators continue their comprehensive examination of the crash. Final determinations regarding the probable cause typically take months or years to complete.
Ryan Airfield has experienced multiple fatal aviation accidents, raising concerns about safety at the facility.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
