Aircraft Incident near McCall Baptist Church Playground

Update:  

NTSB completed their investigation on June 14th, into the Cessna 182 crash that occurred Monday, June 12.

A recovery team has removed all wreckage, and the site was clear as of 1630 June 14, 2023.

(Updated by Communications, June 15, 2023)

McCall, June 12, 2023- A distressing incident occurred this morning at approximately 0950 near the McCall Baptist Church playground and areas of City of McCall property. A Cessna R182 aircraft with tail number N3138C, piloted by an experienced aviator accompanied by a single passenger, encountered difficulties during takeoff from McCall Airport, heading north.

Employees from Sawtooth Flying Service and the Smokejumper Base reported observing the aircraft's failure to maintain altitude, eventually losing sight of it. Prompt action was taken, with Sawtooth Flying Service and McCall Aviation immediately alerting emergency services by dialing 911.

In response to the distress call, personnel from McCall Fire, McCall PD, McCall Airport staff, a pilot from Sawtooth Flying Service, and a pilot from the jump base swiftly mobilized to the crash site. Their coordinated efforts ensured a rapid response and well-coordinated operation.

The pilot and passenger of the Cessna 182 were promptly transported to St. Luke's McCall for immediate medical attention. Following initial assessment and stabilization, both were further transported via helicopter to a medical facility in Boise. As of now, the precise conditions of the patients remain unknown, and medical professionals are working diligently to provide the necessary care.

To ascertain the causes and circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been contacted and is en route to McCall.

As the investigation is in its preliminary stages, we kindly request patience from the public and the media. At this time, no additional information is available to share.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the affected individuals and their families during this challenging time. We extend our gratitude to the first responders and all those involved in the immediate response, whose efforts undoubtedly saved lives and ensured the utmost care was provided.

For media inquiries, please contact Erin Greaves, Communications Manager, at 208-634-8966 egreaves@mccall.id.us, who will be available to provide updates and answer any queries related to this incident as it develops.