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Investigators look for cause of skydiving plane crash that killed 12
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- A plane carrying a pilot and 11 experienced skydivers, including Jen Sharp, the U.S. Parachute Association’s technology director, crashed shortly after takeoff near Butler, Missouri, killing all on board.
- Witnesses reported the plane made an abrupt left turn about 100 feet above the ground and appeared to lose power before crashing nose first; investigators are still gathering evidence and have not yet determined the cause.
- The aircraft, a Pacific Aerospace 750XL built in 2010, had completed multiple successful flights over the weekend prior to the crash.
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has raised concerns about FAA oversight of skydiving operators, noting previous failures to identify safety issues, while the FAA has formed a committee to improve skydiving safety.
- Skydive Kansas City and the U.S. Parachute Association affirmed adherence to safety standards, with the industry reporting a strong safety record despite the recent tragedy.
