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Aircraft Crashes

Kasganj, India: A trainee pilot survived after a Cessna 152 trainer aircraft operated by Chetak Aviation made an emergency landing and crash-landed in a field near an expressway in Uttar Pradesh's Kasganj district on June 29, prompting an investigation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The aircraft, registered as VT-AFB, had departed from Aligarh Airport on a solo training sortie with only the trainee pilot on board. According to the DGCA, the flight was part of a routine solo training exercise when the aircraft encountered an emergency, forcing the pilot to carry out a precautionary landing in an open field near an under-construction expressway in Kasganj. The trainee pilot has been identified by multiple local media reports as aged 28 years. Chetak Aviation confirmed that she had accumulated the required flying hours to undertake solo flights and had been training with the flying training organisation for over a year. According to the flying school, the aircraft took off from Aligarh at approximately 1:05 p.m., while the emergency occurred at around 3:00–4:00 p.m. near Kasganj. Soon after exiting the aircraft, the trainee pilot contacted the academy to report the occurrence, following which local police and emergency responders were alerted. The DGCA, in its official statement, said, "Chetak Aviation Cessna 152 aircraft VT-AFB engaged in solo flying at Aligarh has crash landed in a field in Kasganj. She (trainee pilot) is reported to be safe. DGCA is investigating the occurrence." Chetak Aviation stated that the aircraft came down beside the expressway and that the pilot remained safe. Kasganj Police said she was taken to a local hospital for medical examination and her condition was stable. The exact cause of the emergency landing has not yet been established. Initial reports indicate that the aircraft experienced a technical snag while airborne, compelling the pilot to attempt a forced landing. The flying training organisation said it would determine the cause only after examining the aircraft and speaking with the trainee pilot. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft descend rapidly before coming to rest in a field adjacent to the roadway. Some local reports claimed the aircraft may have struck overhead power lines before landing, although this has not been confirmed by the DGCA. The crash site drew large crowds of local residents, while police officials quickly secured the area and facilitated the pilot's evacuation. Photographs and videos circulating online showed the aircraft lying on its side with visible damage to one wing and the rear fuselage after skidding off the landing area. Following the occurrence, the DGCA initiated a formal investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the emergency landing. According to subsequent reports, all training flights operated by Chetak Aviation have been suspended until the investigation is completed. The incident marks the second trainer aircraft occurrence in Uttar Pradesh within four days. On June 26, a trainee pilot sustained serious injuries at Kanpur's Chakeri Airport after disembarking from a Tecnam P2006T trainer aircraft operated by Garg Aviation while its engine was still running and was struck by the rotating propeller. That incident is also under investigation by the DGCA.

Trainee Pilot Survives Cessna 152 Crash Landing Near Expressway During Solo Flight

Aviation Today News Desk July 1, 2026

Kasganj, India: A trainee pilot survived after a Cessna 152 trainer aircraft operated by Chetak Aviation made an emergency landing and

Beijing, China: China has reportedly imposed a nationwide suspension on private light fixed-wing aircraft operations after a fatal light aircraft crash into Beijing's tallest skyscraper, marking one of the country's most unusual aviation incidents in recent years. According to multiple reports, authorities have issued a nationwide airspace control order halting recreational flying activities involving private light aircraft. The restrictions reportedly extend to flight clubs, skydiving, gliding, paragliding and other low-altitude recreational aviation operations. Although operators across China confirmed receiving official instructions, the measures have not been publicly announced by Chinese authorities, and no timeline has been provided for when the restrictions will be lifted. The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has also not issued a public statement confirming the order. The move follows the June 26 crash of a light aircraft into the CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, a 528-metre (1,732-foot), 109-storey skyscraper that serves as the headquarters of CITIC Group and is the tallest building in Beijing. The accident occurred at approximately 5:55 p.m. local time on June 26, when a Sunward SA60L Aurora, a Chinese-built single-engine, two-seat light sport aircraft registered B-12PP, struck the upper exterior of the CITIC Tower in Beijing's Central Business District in Chaoyang District during the evening rush hour. The aircraft had departed from Shifosi Airport on Beijing's eastern outskirts at around 5:30 p.m. Flight tracking data showed the aircraft flew a wide circuit before heading toward central Beijing, with tracking ending moments before the collision. Authorities confirmed that only one person was on board the pilot who was killed in the crash. Officials have not released the pilot's identity. The collision shattered two large glass façade panels on the skyscraper, sending aircraft debris and broken glass onto the streets below. Thirteen people on the ground were injured, reportedly by falling debris and shattered glass. All injured victims were taken to hospitals for treatment. Their identities and medical conditions have not been disclosed. Despite the dramatic impact, structural damage to the building appeared limited to the broken exterior glass panels, which were boarded up shortly after the accident. Flight tracking information identified the aircraft as a Sunward SA60L Aurora, a Chinese-manufactured two-seat light sport aircraft. The aircraft carried the registration B-12PP and is believed to have been operated by Dongshi Shuangyue General Aviation, a Beijing-based general aviation company that offers sightseeing flights, introductory flying experiences and pilot training from Shifosi Airport in Beijing's Pinggu District. Company promotional material advertising sightseeing flights was removed from Chinese social media shortly after the crash. Reuters reported it could not independently confirm whether the company still owned or operated the aircraft at the time of the accident, while an employee declined to verify ownership. Chinese authorities have launched an investigation into the accident. As of June 30, investigators have not identified the cause of the crash, and no preliminary findings have been released. Officials have not indicated whether the accident resulted from mechanical failure, pilot error, medical issues or any other factor.

China Reportedly Halts Recreational Flying After Fatal Beijing Skyscraper Crash

Aviation Today News Desk June 30, 2026

Beijing, China: China has reportedly imposed a nationwide suspension on private light fixed-wing aircraft operations after a fatal light aircraft crash

Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia: Fourteen people were killed after a helicopter operated by Saudi energy giant Saudi Aramco crashed during a routine mission near the strategic oil hub of Ras Tanura in eastern Saudi Arabia early Sunday, marking one of the country's deadliest civilian helicopter accidents in recent years. Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Energy confirmed that the helicopter crashed at approximately 6:00 a.m. local time (0300 GMT) on June 28, killing all 14 people on board. Officials said all the victims were Saudi nationals, and there were no survivors. The ministry has not released the identities of the victims, nor has it disclosed whether those on board were Aramco employees, contractors, flight crew or other personnel. The helicopter was being operated by Saudi Aramco, the world's largest oil producer. According to state media, the aircraft was conducting a routine operational mission when the accident occurred. Saudi authorities have not identified the helicopter model, registration number or operator details. The exact circumstances leading to the crash remain unclear. Officials have not confirmed whether the aircraft crashed over land or water, nor have they announced whether distress calls were received before the accident. Saudi authorities immediately launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the crash. As of the latest official update, investigators have not released any preliminary findings, and no evidence has been presented suggesting mechanical failure, adverse weather, sabotage or hostile action. The crash occurred in Ras Tanura, located on Saudi Arabia's eastern Gulf coast near the Strait of Hormuz. The city is home to one of the world's largest oil export terminals and serves as a key hub for Saudi Arabia's petroleum industry. The accident came just two days after Saudi Aramco resumed crude oil loadings at the Ras Tanura export terminal, following a suspension of nearly four months caused by heightened regional tensions and disruptions to shipping in the Gulf. The timing of the crash has drawn attention because of the ongoing geopolitical instability in the region. However, Saudi authorities have not indicated any connection between the accident and the recent security situation, and investigators continue to treat the incident as an aviation accident pending the outcome of the inquiry. Saudi Aramco had recently shifted portions of its crude exports to alternative pipeline routes during disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz before resuming normal loading operations at Ras Tanura. The Ministry of Energy expressed its condolences to the families of those killed and confirmed that the investigation is being conducted with the participation of all relevant authorities. Further information, including the identities of the victims, the helicopter type, flight purpose and probable cause, is expected to be released once investigators complete the initial phase of their inquiry.

14 Killed After Saudi Aramco Helicopter Crashes Near Ras Tanura; Probe Underway

Aviation Today News Desk June 29, 2026

Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia: Fourteen people were killed after a helicopter operated by Saudi energy giant Saudi Aramco crashed during a

Fochville, South Africa: Two people were killed after a Bird Aviation training aircraft crashed near Fochville in South Africa's Gauteng province on Saturday afternoon, with aviation authorities launching an investigation into the cause of the accident. Bird Aviation confirmed that one of its aircraft was involved in the accident at approximately 4:00 p.m. local time on June 27. The academy said emergency services responded immediately and the relevant aviation authorities were notified in accordance with regulatory requirements. In an official media release, the flight school said the circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation and that no additional details can be released until investigators have completed their work. The academy stated that the families of the aviators had been informed and extended its condolences to those affected by what it described as a devastating loss. Bird Aviation also said it would withhold the identities of the occupants until all required family notifications had been completed and the necessary permissions had been granted. South African emergency response agencies, including ER24, Netcare911 and Gauteng Emergency Medical Services, responded to the crash after the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre activated its emergency response network. Both occupants of the aircraft were found to have sustained fatal injuries. Following recovery operations, the crash site was handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), which has opened an official investigation into the accident. Bird Aviation said it is fully cooperating with investigators and will continue assisting the relevant authorities, including SACAA, SAPS and the appropriate consulate. The academy also thanked emergency medical personnel, first responders, law enforcement agencies and aviation authorities for their professionalism and support during the response. Authorities have not yet disclosed the aircraft's planned route, the circumstances leading to the crash or a possible cause. As of June 29, the identities of the two people killed have not been publicly released. Separately sources indicated that the deceased were Indian nationals; however, Aviation Today has been unable to independently verify their identities at the time of publication. According to Gulte, one of the victims was N. Charan Teja, a Telugu trainee pilot from Andhra Pradesh, India, who was undergoing flight training at Bird Aviation in South Africa. The report said Teja had moved to South Africa to pursue his dream of becoming a commercial pilot and was among the two occupants killed in the June 27 crash near Fochville. However, South African authorities and Bird Aviation had not officially confirmed the identities of the victims at the time of publication. The aircraft involved was a Piper PA-28-180 Cherokee C, registered ZS-ESZ, although investigators have not yet issued an official preliminary report. The investigation remains ongoing.

Two Killed After Bird Aviation Training Aircraft Crashes In South Africa, Probe Underway

Aviation Today News Desk June 29, 2026

Fochville, South Africa: Two people were killed after a Bird Aviation training aircraft crashed near Fochville in South Africa’s Gauteng province

Tomblaine, France: Eleven people were killed after a skydiving aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff near Nancy in northeastern France on Sunday, June 28, in one of the country's deadliest civilian aviation accidents involving a parachuting flight in decades. The aircraft, identified by authorities as a German-registered Pilatus PC-6, departed from Nancy-Essey Airport at approximately 11:00 a.m. local time before suffering what officials described as a malfunction moments after becoming airborne. The aircraft crashed in the commune of Tomblaine, around 300 metres from the end of the runway, killing everyone on board. The victims included the pilot, five skydiving instructors and five trainee parachutists, according to regional authorities. No one survived the crash. According to Meurthe-et-Moselle Prefect Yves Séguy, the aircraft encountered a malfunction shortly after departure from Nancy-Essey Airport. Officials said the airplane lost altitude rapidly and plunged almost vertically before striking the ground near a bicycle path adjacent to a commercial area. Despite the severity of the accident, the aircraft narrowly missed nearby residential buildings, preventing what authorities said could have been an even greater tragedy. Investigators have not yet determined the precise cause of the accident. Witnesses reported hearing the aircraft's engine suddenly fall silent shortly after takeoff, followed almost immediately by the impact. Several residents told local media the aircraft appeared to descend without any obvious attempt to return to the airport. Authorities said there was no evidence of an in-flight explosion or significant post-impact fire, although the aircraft was completely destroyed upon impact. The aircraft was being used for a scheduled parachuting flight operated by a skydiving school. French authorities confirmed the aircraft was registered in Germany, although officials have not yet publicly identified the operator or ownership details. The Swiss-built Pilatus PC-6 Porter is widely used around the world for parachuting operations because of its excellent short takeoff and landing performance, high-wing configuration and ability to carry multiple skydivers. The flight was carrying 10 parachutists, comprising five instructors and five students, along with the pilot. Several reports indicated the students were preparing for tandem skydives. Some media outlets reported that the trainee participants included nursing professionals from the Nancy area taking part in a recreational skydiving experience. However, French authorities have not officially released the identities of any victims. Officials confirmed that some relatives and friends of those on board had gathered at the airport to watch the planned parachute jumps. Several family members reportedly witnessed the aircraft's fatal descent shortly after takeoff. Emergency psychological support teams were deployed to assist grieving relatives, witnesses and first responders. More than 50 firefighters, police officers, emergency medical teams and specialist aviation investigators responded to the scene. Authorities established a security perimeter around the crash site and urged members of the public to stay away while rescue and recovery operations continued. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez travelled to the scene, while Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot described the accident as a "terrible tragedy" and extended condolences to the victims' families. The wreckage remained under guard as investigators began documenting evidence and recovering aircraft components. France's aviation accident investigators have launched a formal investigation into the crash. Authorities have stressed that no cause has yet been established. Although northeastern France experienced exceptionally high temperatures the day before the accident, investigators have not linked the weather to the crash. Witness reports that the engine appeared to stop shortly after takeoff will form part of the investigation, but officials cautioned that eyewitness accounts alone cannot determine the cause. Unlike many larger commercial aircraft, the Pilatus PC-6 is generally not equipped with a cockpit voice recorder or flight data recorder, meaning investigators will rely heavily on physical evidence, maintenance documentation, operational records and witness testimony. As investigators continue examining the wreckage, authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation until the official investigation determines what caused the aircraft to crash so soon after takeoff.

11 Killed After Skydiving Aircraft Crashes Shortly After Takeoff In France

Aviation Today News Desk June 29, 2026

Tomblaine, France: Eleven people were killed after a skydiving aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff near Nancy in northeastern France on Sunday,

Washington, United States: Two California men were killed after their float-equipped aircraft struck a high-voltage transmission line and crashed into the Columbia River near the Tri-Cities area of southeastern Washington on Wednesday afternoon, triggering widespread power outages, a brush fire, and a large-scale emergency response. The accident occurred at approximately 2:29 p.m. PDT on June 24 near the Cable Bridge and Clover Island, between Pasco and Kennewick. According to emergency officials, the aircraft collided with a transmission line spanning the Columbia River before overturning and crashing into the water. Authorities later identified the victims as Randy J. Peterson, 64, of Sonoma, California, who was piloting the aircraft, and Eric Wayne Houston, 50, also of Sonoma, who was traveling as a passenger. The Franklin County Coroner confirmed both men died at the scene. Officials said the pair had departed California earlier that day and were en route to Priest Lake, Idaho, where they planned to attend a gathering of seaplane enthusiasts. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying unusually low over the Columbia River moments before the crash. According to accounts provided to local media, the pilot appeared to be attempting to fly beneath the transmission lines crossing the river when the aircraft struck one of the lower power cables. The impact severed the transmission line, causing extensive power outages across the Tri-Cities region. Benton Public Utility District reported that more than 11,000 customers lost electricity. The power outage extended south of the Columbia River from Highway 395 west toward Leslie Road and affected almost 20% of the public utility district’s customers. Franklin PUD also reported a power outage to about 1,800 customers in Pasco north of the Columbia River to Interstate 182. The downed power line also ignited a brush fire near Riverview Park and the Pasco Youth Baseball Complex. Firefighters quickly contained the blaze before it could spread further. Multiple emergency agencies responded immediately to the crash, including the Pasco Fire Department, Pasco Police Department, Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Benton County Sheriff's Office, Columbia Basin Dive Rescue, the U.S. Coast Guard, Washington State Patrol, and utility crews from Benton PUD and Franklin PUD. Several witnesses reportedly entered the river in an attempt to rescue the occupants before emergency crews arrived. However, the aircraft had overturned and both occupants were trapped inside. Rescue personnel later recovered the victims from the submerged aircraft. The floatplane remained partially afloat before drifting downstream, where responders secured it using rescue boats. A crane was later used to lift the wreckage from the Columbia River for investigators. The Washington Department of Ecology also responded to monitor the river for any fuel spill. Officials later determined there was no significant environmental impact, stating that only a small amount of fuel had escaped and quickly dissipated. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the accident, with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local law enforcement. Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft's maintenance history, pilot qualifications, weather conditions, flight path, and the circumstances that led to the collision with the transmission line. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office is coordinating the local investigation while federal authorities determine the probable cause of the crash. Publicly available Federal Aviation Administration registration records indicate the float-equipped aircraft was registered in Sonoma, California. However, authorities have not officially identified the registered owner, and investigators have not released additional ownership details. Emergency responders stated that numerous agencies worked together to secure the crash site, recover the victims, restore power, extinguish the brush fire, and ensure public safety throughout the incident. The NTSB said it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and will release additional information as the investigation progresses. A preliminary report is expected in the coming weeks, while the final report may take several months. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Two Killed After Floatplane Hits Power Line And Crashes Into Columbia River

Aviation Today News Desk June 26, 2026

Washington, United States: Two California men were killed after their float-equipped aircraft struck a high-voltage transmission line and crashed into the

Fort Simpson, Canada: Three people were killed after a Buffalo Airways firefighting aircraft crashed while supporting wildfire suppression efforts west of Fort Simpson in Canada's Northwest Territories, prompting a federal investigation into one of the country's latest fatal aviation accidents. The aircraft, operating as Bird Dog 104, went down approximately 50 to 55 kilometres west of Fort Simpson on June 25 while assisting crews battling an active wildfire in the Martin Hills area. Authorities confirmed that all three occupants aboard the aircraft died in the crash. Northwest Territories fire officials said the aircraft had been conducting aerial operations in support of wildfire FS009 when it crashed. The aircraft was serving in a "bird dog" role, a critical function in aerial firefighting that involves coordinating water bombers, assessing fire behaviour and directing suppression aircraft over the fire zone. The aircraft involved was identified as a Rockwell Aero Commander 690C Jetprop (Turbo Commander) bearing Canadian registration C-FNRP. Aviation records show the aircraft was operated by Buffalo Airways, the Yellowknife-based airline widely known for its cargo operations and aerial firefighting services across northern Canada. Buffalo Airways was founded in 1970 by the late Joe McBryan and has become one of Canada's best-known northern aviation operators. The privately owned airline operates cargo, charter and aerial firefighting missions, particularly in remote regions where aviation remains essential for transporting supplies, equipment and emergency personnel. Emergency responders were dispatched after reports that an aircraft supporting wildfire operations had crashed west of Fort Simpson. Due to the remote location, emergency crews worked alongside wildfire personnel to reach the accident site. The Northwest Territories Coroner Service later confirmed that all three people aboard the aircraft had died. Officials have not publicly released their identities pending notification of next of kin. The exact sequence of events leading to the crash remains unknown. Authorities have not indicated whether the crew transmitted a distress call before impact, nor have they disclosed any information regarding weather conditions, mechanical issues or operational factors that may have contributed to the accident. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has deployed investigators to the crash site and will examine the aircraft wreckage, maintenance records, flight history, operational procedures and environmental conditions as part of its investigation. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are also assisting alongside the Northwest Territories Coroner Service. In a statement, Buffalo Airways confirmed that one of its firefighting aircraft had been involved in the fatal accident while conducting wildfire operations and said it was cooperating fully with investigators. The company said its immediate focus is supporting the families of those who lost their lives as well as its employees affected by the tragedy. Northwest Territories fire officials also expressed condolences to the victims' families, colleagues and the broader firefighting community. The accident occurred during an active wildfire season in the Northwest Territories, where aircraft play an essential role in detecting fires, coordinating aerial suppression and protecting remote communities. Bird Dog aircraft are particularly important because they guide larger airtankers to make accurate retardant and water drops while monitoring fire conditions from above. Aviation experts note that aerial firefighting is among the most demanding forms of flying, requiring crews to operate at low altitudes, often in mountainous terrain, reduced visibility, smoke and rapidly changing weather conditions. At present, investigators have not determined what caused the aircraft to crash. The Transportation Safety Board's investigation is expected to determine whether mechanical, operational, environmental or human factors contributed to the accident. Investigators will also assess aircraft performance, pilot actions and any available operational data before issuing preliminary findings.

Three Killed As Buffalo Airways Firefighting Plane Crashes Near Fort Simpson

Aviation Today News Desk June 26, 2026

Fort Simpson, Canada: Three people were killed after a Buffalo Airways firefighting aircraft crashed while supporting wildfire suppression efforts west of

Nicholasville, United States: A Florida couple was killed after an experimental aircraft crashed into a farm in central Kentucky just minutes after departing Blue Grass Airport on Saturday, June 20, with federal investigators continuing to examine what caused the fatal accident. The victims have been identified as Brian Tonner, 72, and Karen Tonner, 71, according to the Jessamine County Coroner's Office. Coroner Michael Hughes said the married couple, both residents of Florida, were traveling home when the crash occurred on June 20. Authorities said Brian Tonner was piloting a Comp Air CA-6 experimental aircraft while Karen Tonner was onboard as a passenger. The aircraft departed Blue Grass Airport in Lexington at approximately 8:40 a.m. local time and crashed about six minutes later on a farm near Kentucky Route 169, between U.S. 27 and U.S. 68 in Jessamine County, south of Nicholasville. Emergency crews responded shortly after receiving reports of an aircraft accident in the rural area. Both occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. According to flight-tracking data, the aircraft traveled roughly 10 miles after departure and reached an altitude of approximately 3,300 feet before radar contact was lost. Investigators have not determined what caused the aircraft to go down. The aircraft involved was identified as a Comp Air CA-6, an experimental, amateur-built aircraft. Aviation records list the airplane as registration N82BT. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched an investigation immediately following the crash. Investigators spent several days documenting the wreckage and collecting evidence from the crash site. The agency said investigators are reviewing multiple factors, including the pilot's flight experience, the aircraft's maintenance and operational history, weather conditions at the time of the accident, air traffic control information, radar data, and witness statements. Officials have not indicated whether the aircraft experienced a mechanical issue before impact. The NTSB said the wreckage will be transported to a secure facility for a more detailed examination once on-site documentation is completed. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft shortly before it crashed, and investigators are continuing to gather statements and any available video footage from the area. The FAA is assisting the NTSB in the investigation. No preliminary cause has been released, and officials cautioned that determining the circumstances behind the crash could take months. A preliminary NTSB report is expected within the coming weeks, while a final report identifying the probable cause of the accident may take considerably longer. The crash remains under investigation.

Florida Couple Killed After Experimental Plane Crashes After Takeoff From Kentucky

Aviation Today News Desk June 24, 2026

Nicholasville, United States: A Florida couple was killed after an experimental aircraft crashed into a farm in central Kentucky just minutes

Sitka, United States: A United States Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crashed during a routine training mission near Sitka, Alaska, on June 22, injuring all four crew members on board and prompting a formal investigation into the accident. The helicopter, assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Sitka, went down near Harbor Mountain, a sparsely populated area several miles outside the southeast Alaskan community of Sitka on Baranof Island. The aircraft was conducting a training flight when the crash occurred, according to Coast Guard officials. Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Arctic District command center received notification of the crash at approximately 10:07 a.m. local time. Emergency responders, including Sitka Fire and Rescue personnel, were immediately dispatched to the scene. Rescue crews arrived at approximately 11:00 a.m. and evacuated all four crew members to Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center for treatment. No fatalities were reported. Initial reports described the extent of the injuries as unknown. However, Coast Guard officials later confirmed that all four crew members survived and sustained minor injuries. “We are incredibly relieved our crew members survived with only minor injuries,” Rear Adm. Bob Little, commander of the Coast Guard Arctic District, said in a statement. The Coast Guard identified the aircraft as an MH-60 Jayhawk, the service's primary long-range search-and-rescue helicopter. The helicopter is a military-operated aircraft owned and operated by the U.S. Coast Guard and is routinely used for search-and-rescue missions, medical evacuations, law enforcement operations, and training exercises throughout Alaska and other coastal regions. Officials have not released the identities of the four crew members involved in the accident. Petty Officer Ashly Murphy confirmed that the helicopter was conducting a routine training flight at the time of the crash. In its initial statement, the Coast Guard said: “The safety, well-being, and rescue of our crew members is our absolute, immediate priority. The cause of the incident is not yet known. A formal investigation will be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the event.” Authorities have not disclosed what led to the crash. There has been no indication of mechanical failure, weather-related factors, operational issues, or human factors, and investigators have not announced any preliminary findings. The accident occurred near Harbor Mountain, a rugged area overlooking Sitka. The region is known for challenging aviation conditions, mountainous terrain, coastal weather systems, fjords, and remote operating environments frequently encountered by Coast Guard aircrews. Following the crash, the Coast Guard said it would conduct a formal investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. The incident marks the latest serious aviation accident in the United States during June and comes as federal and military investigators continue examining several other recent aircraft crashes across the country.

Four Survive After US Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk Crashes Near Sitka During Training

Aviation Today News Desk June 23, 2026

Sitka, United States: A United States Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crashed during a routine training mission near Sitka, Alaska, on

La Baule-Escoublac, France: A twin-engine Cessna 421 crashed during its approach to La Baule-Escoublac Airport in western France on June 19, 2026, killing both people on board and triggering an investigation by French aviation authorities. The aircraft went down in a field near the airport while preparing to land after a flight from Rennes. Emergency services responding to the scene found the wreckage engulfed in flames, with the fire spreading to nearby vegetation. Despite the rapid response of firefighters and rescue teams, both occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims were identified as 69-year-old Claude Guillemot, co-founder of video game publisher Ubisoft and chairman of Guillemot Corporation, and a flight instructor from Rennes who was accompanying him on the flight. French authorities had not publicly released the instructor's name as of June 22. According to local officials, the aircraft involved was a Cessna 421 Golden Eagle, a pressurized twin-engine piston aircraft widely used for private and business aviation operations. Local authorities indicated that the aircraft was owned by Guillemot. The flight had departed Rennes earlier in the day and was arriving at La Baule when the accident occurred. Several reports indicated that Guillemot was expected to attend an aviation gathering in the coastal town over the weekend, though authorities have not formally linked the flight to the event. Witnesses quoted by French media reported seeing the aircraft maneuvering during the final stages of its approach before it descended and impacted the ground. However, investigators have not confirmed the circumstances leading to the crash. The French Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA) and other relevant authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. No preliminary findings have been released, and officials have not indicated whether weather, mechanical issues, operational factors, or other circumstances may have contributed to the crash. Guillemot was one of the five Guillemot brothers who founded Ubisoft in 1986. While his brother Yves Guillemot became the company's longtime chief executive, Claude played a key role in the group's development and later served as chairman of Guillemot Corporation, the gaming hardware company behind brands such as Thrustmaster and Hercules. Under the leadership of the Guillemot family, Ubisoft grew into one of the world's largest video game publishers, producing globally recognized franchises including Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, Rainbow Six, Ghost Recon, Rayman, Just Dance, and The Division. French investigators continue to examine the wreckage and gather evidence as they work to determine what caused the fatal crash near La Baule.

Ubisoft Co-Founder Claude Guillemot Among Two Killed In Fatal Cessna 421 Crash

Aviation Today News Desk June 22, 2026

La Baule-Escoublac, France: A twin-engine Cessna 421 crashed during its approach to La Baule-Escoublac Airport in western France on June 19,

Aircraft Crashes

Trainee Pilot Survives Cessna 152 Crash Landing Near Expressway During Solo Flight

China Reportedly Halts Recreational Flying After Fatal Beijing Skyscraper Crash

14 Killed After Saudi Aramco Helicopter Crashes Near Ras Tanura; Probe Underway

Two Killed After Bird Aviation Training Aircraft Crashes In South Africa, Probe Underway

11 Killed After Skydiving Aircraft Crashes Shortly After Takeoff In France

Two Killed After Floatplane Hits Power Line And Crashes Into Columbia River

Three Killed As Buffalo Airways Firefighting Plane Crashes Near Fort Simpson

Florida Couple Killed After Experimental Plane Crashes After Takeoff From Kentucky

Four Survive After US Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk Crashes Near Sitka During Training

Ubisoft Co-Founder Claude Guillemot Among Two Killed In Fatal Cessna 421 Crash

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