On Friday, a Cirrus Vision jet crashed into construction equipment while attempting takeoff at Driggs-Reed Memorial Airport (KDIJ). There was on passenger injured according to a press release from Driggs City Administrator Doug Self.
“It’s a very unfortunate event. But it was super fortunate that they were both okay.” Airport superintendent Billy Cyr said on Monday.
Cyr said he could not provide any more details based on the ongoing investigation with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
At approximately 6:30 a.m., the aircraft entered a closed section of runway that was under construction and began its takeoff roll. The aircraft was supposed to be flying to Olathe, KS.
According to the press release, the pilot attempted to slow the plane upon spotting the construction site but was unable to avoid colliding with construction material. The crash caused significant damage to the aircraft and injured one of the two passengers.
The injured passenger was transported by ambulance to Teton Valley Hospital. As of Monday, Aug. 17, the person injured in the crash has been released from Teton Valley Hospital.
The airplane involved in the crash was listed as owned by VISION71 LLC with no other name listed.
The investigation involving the City of Driggs the airport’s consulting Project Engineer, the FAA, and NTSB remains ongoing.
