ISLIP, NY – A small single-engine plane crashed at Long Island MacArthur Airport in Islip on Monday evening, resulting in the death of the pilot and a passenger. According to reports released by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the plane was a Beechcraft Bonanza A36. The aircraft crashed near the runway’s end around 6:15 p.m.
According to Suffolk County police, the plane lifted off in a southwest direction and attempted to return to the airport for an unknown reason. A witness statement noted that the plane had been airborne before its attempted return. Tragically, upon its return, the aircraft crashed. The two adult male victims, yet to be identified, were declared dead at the scene.
The FAA cites that executing a 180-degree turn shortly after takeoff is extremely risky for a single-engine plane. In case of engine failure, pilots are advised to attempt a landing without turning. However, it remains unclear whether the crash was due to any mechanical issue or if any such issue was communicated.
The FAA is currently working with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to investigate the crash. Suffolk County Police Department’s crime scene investigation team is also processing the crash scene, as would be done for a fatal car crash.
While the investigation continues, the Islip officials have announced that the runway will stay closed. They have advised passengers to check with their airlines for potential delays or cancellations.