Fatal Mid-Air Collision Shakes Colorado’s Aviation Community
Tragedy struck the Fort Morgan Municipal Airport in Colorado on Sunday morning, resulting in one fatality and three injuries. A devastating mid-air collision occurred between a Cessna 172, operated by the Broomfield-based Bell Ornithopters Flying Club, and an Extra Flugzeugbau EA300. Both aircraft were attempting to land around 10:40 a.m. local time.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the Cessna was on its final approach when it was hit by the Extra EA300. The latter was performing a left base-to-final turn to the same runway. The impact ignited both aircraft, causing dramatic plumes of black smoke that could be seen from miles away.
The Cessna’s two occupants sustained minor injuries and received treatment at the scene. Meanwhile, one person from the Extra was hospitalized. Tragically, the fourth occupant was pronounced dead at the scene by the Morgan County Coroner’s Office.
Local citizens and emergency responders worked hand in hand to put out the fires before professional crews arrived. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have since launched a joint investigation into the crash.
This incident underscores the ongoing concerns about safety protocols at smaller municipal airports across the United States.
Source: CNN