Small Jet Crash Disrupts Oshkosh Air Show Preparations

small Jet Carrying Air Show Enthusiasts Crashes Near Granite Falls, One Dead

GRANITE FALLS, Minn. – Tragedy struck near granite Falls on Monday evening as a small jet, en route to a highly anticipated air show in Wisconsin, crashed, resulting in the death of one occupant and injuries to another.

The deceased has been identified as david Colin Dacus, 46, of San Francisco. He was pronounced dead at the crash site shortly before 5:30 p.m. The sole survivor was mark Ryan Ruff,43,of Dallas.

The aircraft, a 50-year-old aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros military trainer jet, went down approximately five miles south of Granite Falls, in proximity to the Granite Falls Airport. The jet, registered as N339L, was reportedly traveling from Watertown, South Dakota, to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, with the intention of attending the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) show in Oshkosh. the occupants had previously flown from Gillette, Wyoming, to Watertown earlier that day.

According to federal aviation records, the flight lasted 23 minutes, departing watertown at 5:06 p.m. and concluding with the crash at 5:29 p.m. Flight data, analyzed by experienced commercial pilot robert Katz, indicated a steady climb to an altitude of 20,000 feet along a direct route towards Fond du Lac. Katz suggested that while such a climb might stress an aircraft of that age, it wouldn’t be unusual for the flight’s duration.Following its peak altitude, the jet began a steady descent. Sheriff Bill Flaten of Yellow Medicine County reported that his office had received data suggesting the aircraft was experiencing engine problems.

Flight path data revealed that the jet executed a large, circular loop near the Granite Falls Airport, likely an attempt to manage its descent for a landing. However, the aircraft then initiated a much smaller loop before its rapid descent to the crash location.

The Yellow Medicine County Sheriff’s Office received the initial 911 call at approximately 5:32 p.m. Emergency responders arriving at the scene provided assistance to the injured survivor. During their assessment of the crash site, personnel discovered an unspent cartridge associated with the jet’s ejection seats.The Bloomington Bomb Squad and the 148th Air Wing were called to the scene to safely remove and detonate the cartridge in a controlled explosion.

Investigators from the Federal Aviation Governance (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) arrived on Tuesday to commence a thorough investigation into the incident. The wreckage will be removed and thoroughly examined at a separate facility.

What specific maintenance records will the FAA be scrutinizing in response to this incident?

Incident Overview: Oshkosh Air Show 2025

A small jet aircraft crashed during preparations for the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture Oshkosh air show on July 23, 2025. The incident occurred at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, temporarily halting some pre-show activities.Initial reports indicate the aircraft was a privately owned L-39 Albatros jet. The pilot was able to eject safely and sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The FAA and local authorities are currently investigating the cause of the jet crash, focusing on potential mechanical failure or pilot error.The air show organizers have confirmed that the main air show schedule remains on track, though some practice flights and arrival procedures were delayed. This incident highlights the inherent risks associated wiht air show aviation and the importance of stringent safety protocols.

Aircraft Involved: L-39 Albatros Details

The L-39 Albatros is a high-performance jet trainer originally developed by Czechoslovakia’s Aero Vodochody. It’s a popular choice for civilian aerobatic teams and private owners due to its robust design and relatively affordable operating costs.

Key Specifications:

Type: Jet Trainer/light attack aircraft

manufacturer: Aero Vodochody

Engine: Ivchenko AI-25TL turbofan

Maximum Speed: 488 mph (785 km/h)

Common Uses: Aerobatics, display flying, pilot training.

The Albatros has a generally good safety record, but like all aircraft, requires meticulous maintenance and skilled piloting. The specific aircraft involved in the Oshkosh incident was registered to a private individual based in Illinois, according to preliminary FAA records. Understanding the L-39 Albatros performance characteristics is crucial for investigators determining the sequence of events.

Impact on Air Show Schedule & Safety Measures

While the Oshkosh Air Show is proceeding, the crash has prompted a review of safety procedures.

Temporary Flight Restrictions: A temporary flight restriction (TFR) was put in place immediately following the incident to allow emergency responders access and facilitate the inquiry.

Arrival Delays: Arrivals of other aircraft participating in the air show were temporarily suspended. The EAA is working to minimize disruptions and get the schedule back on track.

Enhanced Safety Briefings: Organizers have announced enhanced safety briefings for all pilots and air show performers.

Increased Scrutiny of Aircraft Maintenance: The FAA is expected to increase scrutiny of aircraft maintenance records for all participating aircraft.

the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is renowned for its commitment to safety.This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers involved in experimental aviation and the need for constant vigilance. Air show safety protocols are continually evolving based on lessons learned from past incidents.

Investigation Details & Preliminary Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with assistance from the FAA. Investigators are on-site collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing flight data recorders (if equipped).

Focus Areas:

Mechanical Failure: Examination of the engine, flight controls, and other critical systems.

Pilot Error: Review of the pilot’s qualifications, experience, and recent flight history.

Weather conditions: Assessment of weather conditions at the time of the crash.

Air traffic Control Communications: Analysis of communications between the pilot and air traffic control.

Preliminary reports suggest the pilot reported a loss of engine power shortly before ejecting. However, this data is subject to change as the investigation progresses. The NTSB will release a preliminary report within the next few weeks, followed by a final report detailing the cause of the aviation accident and any safety recommendations. Aircraft accident investigation is a complex process requiring meticulous attention to detail.

Historical Context: Past Incidents at Oshkosh

While relatively rare,incidents have occurred at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in the past.

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