A dramatic aviation incident unfolded at Kalispell City Airport on Monday afternoon when a small aircraft collided with a parked plane, sparking a massive fire and prompting an emergency response. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
What Happened?
Around 2 PM local time, a single-engine Socata TBM 700 turboprop, carrying four passengers, attempted to land at the city-owned airport just south of Kalispell. According to Kalispell Police Chief Jordan Venezio and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aircraft lost control during landing and struck an unoccupied plane on the ground.
The impact ignited a fire that spread to nearby grassy areas and affected multiple aircraft. Kalispell Fire Chief Jay Hagen confirmed that the pilot and passengers escaped the burning plane without assistance. Two individuals sustained minor injuries and were treated on-site.
Eyewitness Accounts
Ron Danielson, manager of a nearby inn, described the crash as deafening:
“It sounded like if you were to stick your head in a bass drum and somebody smacked it as hard as they could,” he told reporters.
Aircraft Details
FAA records identify the plane as a 2011-built Socata TBM 700, registered to Meter Sky LLC of Pullman, Washington. The company has not yet issued a public statement.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the incident. Aviation safety consultant Jeff Guzzetti noted that such collisions involving parked aircraft occur a few times annually in general aviation.
About Kalispell City Airport
Located in northwest Montana, Kalispell is a community of approximately 30,000 residents. The airport is city-owned and serves as a hub for general aviation in the region.
