A fatal plane crash at Gila Bend Municipal Airport has left one dead and another seriously injured. The incident occurred yesterday around 9:50 a.m., near AZ 85 and Gila Bend Airport Road. The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office reported that one victim was airlifted to the hospital with serious injuries, while the other was pronounced dead at the scene, according to FOX 10 Phoenix.
Investigations into the cause of the crash are underway by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). As mentioned in a post by the NTSB on "X," formerly known as Twitter, the aircraft was described as an "experimental amateur built air creation twin aircraft." This type of aircraft, often constructed from kits by individuals, is subject to inspection and must obtain an airworthiness certificate from the FAA before taking to the skies.
According to 12 News, spokesperson for the Experimental Aircraft Association, Dick Knapinski, clarified that while these homemade planes are less common, they are not inherently unsafe. "These are licensed aircraft, they are inspected aircraft and they are inspected every year or every 100 hours of flight just like big factory-built aircraft," Knapinski told 12 News. He also revealed that the fatal accident rate for experimental aircraft has dropped more than 50 percent over the past 15 years.
The specifics of the crash raised questions. Knapinski, upon reviewing crash photos, speculated that the involved aircraft may be an Ultralight Aircraft which are lighter, require less fuel, and typically accommodate only one person. The fact that two people were reported on board the downed plane suggests, an irregularity that demands FAA scrutiny. During an investigation, the NTSB evaluates factors such as weather conditions, pilot experience, and licensing status of the aircraft, though determining the cause can take up to a year.
The names of the victims have not been released as officials continue their inquiry into what caused the tragic event.
