NTSB Finds No Mechanical Failures in Fatal Missouri Skydiving Plane Crash That Killed 12
Federal investigators have found no evidence of mechanical or engine failure in the devastating Missouri skydiving plane crash that claimed the lives of 12 people on June 14, leaving investigators searching for answers about what caused the tragedy.
According to the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) preliminary report released on Thursday, the single-engine turboprop aircraft operated by Skydive Kansas City showed no signs of any pre-impact engine malfunction or mechanical defect that could explain why it crashed just minutes after takeoff from Butler Memorial Airport.
Investigators also found:
No contamination or debris in the aircraft’s fuel.
The aircraft met all required weight and balance limits before departure.
No evidence of maintenance issues that would have prevented normal flight.
Because the privately operated aircraft was not required to carry cockpit voice or flight data recorders, investigators are now examining damaged GoPro cameras recovered from the wreckage in hopes of uncovering additional clues.
The aircraft departed Butler Memorial Airport at approximately 11:25 a.m. and had been airborne for only about five minutes when it suddenly veered left during its initial climb. Witnesses reported both wings became nearly vertical before the aircraft descended nose-first into a field and erupted into flames.
Local officials initially believed the pilot may have been attempting an emergency landing after experiencing a possible loss of power. However, the preliminary investigation has so far found no evidence supporting an engine failure.
The crash was especially heartbreaking as family members had gathered at the airport to watch their loved ones skydive, only to witness the fatal accident unfold.
Among those killed were experienced skydivers, instructors, videographers, and aviation professionals, including:
• Jen Sharp, Technology Director for the United States Parachute Association
• Dave Hershberger
• Mike Shanahan
• Marcus Miller
• Matthew Swope
• Dustin McKinney
• Will Fischer
• Nick Nash
• Dane Cordes
along with the pilot and two additional skydivers.
The United States Parachute Association stated that Skydive Kansas City complied with FAA maintenance requirements and industry safety standards.
The NTSB emphasized that this is only a preliminary report. The investigation remains ongoing, and a final report identifying the probable cause of the crash could take more than a year to complete.
