Picture Credits: By Chris Essex
Indiana, UNITED STATES: A vintage World War II-era TBM Avenger aircraft crashed Thursday afternoon at Terre Haute Regional Airport, injuring both occupants and drawing a swift emergency response. The incident took place around 2:00 PM local time as the aircraft was attempting to land.
According to officials, the pilot was seriously injured and was airlifted to a hospital in Indianapolis for advanced medical care. A passenger on board suffered minor injuries and was treated locally. The names of both individuals have not yet been released.
Part of a Vintage Formation Flight
The aircraft was one of three WWII-era planes flying in formation from the Cincinnati area to the TBM Reunion event in Peru, Indiana, an annual gathering dedicated to honoring the Avenger’s legacy. The other two aircraft landed safely: one at Sullivan County Airport and another at Terre Haute.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the TBM Avenger approach for landing when it appeared to struggle with its descent before crashing near the main runway.
FAA and NTSB Begin Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed the aircraft involved was a Grumman TBM Avenger, a torpedo bomber widely used during World War II. Investigators from both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are now examining the wreckage to determine the cause of the crash.
Picture Credits: By Chris Essex
In the immediate aftermath, the airport’s main runway was temporarily closed to allow access to emergency crews and investigators. Flight operations have since resumed, but the investigation is expected to continue over several days.
About the Aircraft
The TBM Avenger is a rare and historic aircraft, celebrated for its role in naval aviation during WWII. Capable of carrying torpedoes and operating from aircraft carriers, it was flown by naval aviators in the Pacific and Atlantic theaters. Today, only a limited number remain airworthy, often owned and maintained by private collectors or museums.
Aviation Community Responds
The TBM Reunion, which brings together warbird pilots, mechanics, and enthusiasts, issued a brief statement expressing concern and support for the injured individuals. The event is expected to continue as scheduled, with added focus on safety and remembrance.
Local residents and aviation fans gathered near the airport fence after the crash, many expressing shock and concern. “It’s heartbreaking to see something like this happen to such a historic aircraft,” said one onlooker, who came to watch the expected fly-in.
Aviation Today will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses and further details are released.
