NTSB Prelim: No Mechanical Failure Found in Fatal Missouri Skydiving Crash

NTSB Preliminary Report Finds No Mechanical Failure in Fatal Missouri Skydiving Crash

The National Transportation Safety Board's preliminary report on the June 14, 2026, crash of a Pacific Aerospace 750XL in Butler, Missouri, found no evidence of engine failure, fuel contamination or weight-and-balance issues — but the cause of the accident that killed all 12 people aboard remains undetermined. The aircraft, operated by Skydive Kansas City, was on its third skydiving flight of the day when it rolled sharply left after takeoff and struck the ground nose-first approximately 300 yards from the runway at Butler Memorial Airport.

Investigators determined the aircraft's Pratt & Whitney PT6 turboprop engine was producing power at impact, and post-accident fuel samples were free of sediment or debris. The NTSB also confirmed the aircraft was within weight-and-balance limits, according to operator records. The pilot, who had logged more than 4,100 flight hours, was described by the company as safety-oriented and conservative. Because the aircraft was not equipped with a flight data recorder or cockpit voice recorder — neither is required for Part 91 skydiving operations — investigators are relying on surveillance video, witness statements and wreckage analysis.

The NTSB's final report, which will assign a probable cause, is expected within 12 to 24 months. While the preliminary findings rule out several common accident factors, key questions remain about what triggered the steep left bank and nose-down impact attitude. Investigators say they are continuing to examine human factors, maintenance records and operational procedures.