A Piper PA-30 small plane crashed shortly after takeoff from DuPage Airport located on International Drive in West Chicago. The incident occurred around 1:50 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon, with two people reportedly onboard, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Emergency personnel from West Chicago police and fire departments promptly responded to the crash scene. Authorities confirmed that debris from the small plane was visible near the airport’s runway area by 2:30 p.m., indicating the severity of the accident.
DuPage Airport officials announced that the facility has been closed temporarily following the incident. The closure aims to ensure safety and to facilitate a thorough investigation by relevant agencies.
The FAA, along with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), has launched an official investigation to determine the cause of the crash. At this stage, police have not released further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the event or the condition of those onboard.
The Piper PA-30 is a twin-engine aircraft commonly used for light aviation activities. This crash echoes concerns about small plane safety, especially during critical phases like takeoff.
Authorities urge the public to avoid the airport area while emergency responses and investigations are ongoing. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available from the FAA, NTSB, and emergency teams handling the situation.
This incident highlights the importance of rigorous aviation safety protocols and continuous monitoring of small aircraft operations. DuPage Airport’s temporary closure underscores the seriousness with which officials view the crash while investigations proceed.
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