Twelve people aboard a skydiving plane, including the pilot, were killed when the aircraft crashed near Butler Memorial Airport, located about 60 miles south of Kansas City, Missouri, officials reported on June 14, 2026.
What Happened
The crash occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday near Butler Memorial Airport in Bates County, Missouri. Emergency responders received a report of a plane down and engulfed in flames. The Missouri State Highway Patrol, Butler Police Department, and Bates County Sheriff’s Office responded. The plane, a 2010 Pacific Aerospace P750 single-engine turboprop, was carrying 11 skydivers and a pilot on a flight to conduct skydiving operations. The aircraft landed in a field adjacent to the airport, and the nearby roadway was shut down as a safety precaution. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched an investigation into the crash.
Key Facts
- The aircraft involved was a Pacific Aerospace P750, manufactured in 2010.
- All 12 people aboard—the pilot and 11 skydivers—were killed.
- The crash site was near Butler Memorial Airport, approximately 60 miles south of Kansas City, Missouri.
- The Missouri State Highway Patrol, Butler Police Department, and Bates County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident.
- The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed no air traffic services were being provided at the time of the crash.
- The NTSB is actively investigating the crash circumstances.
- Skydive Kansas City confirmed the plane was operating to support their skydiving activities.
Why It Matters
This tragic crash represents a significant loss to the local skydiving community and underscores the risks associated with recreational aviation activities. It affects the operators and patrons of Skydive Kansas City and raises concerns about aviation safety in skydiving operations in the region.
Background
The Pacific Aerospace P750 is a turboprop aircraft popular for skydiving due to its ability to carry many jumpers and operate from short runways. The particular aircraft involved had been in service since 2010 and was widely used not only for skydiving but also for cargo, aerial surveying, and medical evacuation flights. Skydive Kansas City regularly operates this model to support its skydiving services.
Analysis
Missouri Highway Patrol Sgt. Justin Ewing confirmed the timeline and crash site details, stating the plane landed in a field near the airport and emergency crews responded promptly. The NTSB spokesperson stated the agency is gathering information and conducting an investigation, though no preliminary conclusions have been released.
Who Is Affected
The immediate impact falls on the families, friends, and loved ones of those who perished, as well as the staff and community of Skydive Kansas City. Local emergency responders and aviation safety officials are also involved in managing the aftermath and investigation.
What Remains Unclear
- The cause or contributing factors of the crash have not been determined.
- No information about a possible mechanical failure or environmental conditions at the time.
- The identities of the deceased other than the pilot and that they were skydivers have not been publicly disclosed.
What Comes Next
The NTSB will continue its investigation into the crash. Skydive Kansas City is cooperating with local authorities, the FAA, and the NTSB to assist in the inquiry. Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Sources
This article is based on reporting and publicly available information from the following source:
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