Pilot tried to return to airport after reported issue
Two people died in a small plane crash Saturday morning near Broomfield, Colorado. The aircraft, a Beechcraft 95, tail reg N4321Z (owned by Cedocs) went down just five minutes after taking off from Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport.
Authorities say the pilot was trying to return to the airport due to a problem. That issue, now believed to be a popped-open door, led to the tragic end.
Takeoff Ends in Disaster
The twin-engine plane took off around 10:01 a.m. The pilot soon reported trouble. Radio traffic confirmed the pilot said, “We’re going to have to go back and re-land. We’ve got the door popped open… We can hardly hear you, sir.”
Air traffic control gave the all-clear for the return. However, no response came from the aircraft. Within minutes, it had crashed in an open field north of U.S. Highway 36.
Another pilot witnessing the event told the control tower, “They just went down north of 36.”
Crash Site and Fire
The crash ignited a small grass fire. Firefighters from the North Metro Fire Rescue District quickly responded. They extinguished the flames and secured the site.
Emergency crews confirmed there were two people onboard. Both died at the scene. Officials have not yet released their names, pending notification of family.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims’ families,” the fire district said in a public statement. “This is a heartbreaking accident.”
Federal Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are now investigating. Both agencies are reviewing flight data and communications to determine the exact cause.
Investigators confirmed that the plane was a Beechcraft 95, a light twin-engine model used for private aviation.
Witnesses and nearby residents have been asked to provide any video or photos of the incident. Early reports suggest the aircraft experienced cabin noise, likely caused by the open door, which may have interfered with communications and flight stability.
Pilot Communication Issues
Before the crash, air traffic controllers tried multiple times to reach the pilot. After initial contact, the pilot’s responses became unclear. Then, there was silence.
Controllers issued several instructions for a safe return. But the plane never made it back. Just before the crash, no further radio contact was made.
A Close-Knit Airport Community in Shock
Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport serves dozens of private flights daily. Located northwest of Denver, it’s a hub for business and recreational aviation.
On Saturday, the airport remained open but under heightened alert. Airport staff and fellow pilots expressed sorrow at the news.
“It’s devastating,” one pilot said. “We all understand the risks, but this still shakes you.”
Awaiting More Details
As of Saturday evening, the identities of the victims had not been confirmed. It is also unclear if mechanical failure, pilot error, or both contributed to the crash.
Authorities plan to release a preliminary report within a few weeks. A full investigation may take months.
Safety Reminder
The crash serves as a grim reminder of the risks in small aircraft aviation. The FAA urges pilots to conduct thorough pre-flight checks and address any issues before or during flight.
Despite modern aviation advances, even minor problems—like an open door—can quickly escalate.
Final Thoughts
This crash marks another tragedy in Colorado’s aviation history. It underscores the importance of fast, clear communication and strict safety protocols. For now, two families mourn their loss, and a community waits for answers.
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