Tragic Skydiving Plane Crash in Missouri Claims 12 Lives
A devastating general aviation tragedy struck the Midwest on Sunday, June 14, 2026. A turboprop aircraft operated by Skydive Kansas City crashed shortly after takeoff near Butler Memorial Airport in Butler, Missouri. The crash resulted in the death of all 12 people on board, including 11 skydivers and the pilot.
As per the FAA reports, the aircraft involved was a Pacific Aerospace P750. The plane went down at approximately 11:35 a.m. local time. Witnesses, including family members of those on board, reportedly saw the crash unfold. Dennis Jacobs, the acting manager of Butler Memorial Airport, stated that the aircraft was unable to gain altitude after takeoff. It made a sharp left turn before going down and burst into flames in a nearby field.
The ill-fated flight was part of the Bucketlist Experience network, owned by Lafayette-based Little Engine Ventures. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is spearheading the investigation. The probe will focus on pilot training and FAA oversight of small parachute operations. Robert Sumwalt, the former NTSB Chairman, noted that small skydiving operations often receive less FAA surveillance than commercial flights.
This tragedy is now being referred to as one of the deadliest regional aviation accidents in recent years. It has sparked renewed calls for improved oversight of general aviation skydiving operators.
Source: InkFreeNews.com – Missouri Skydiving Plane Crash Kills 12