Four Survive Fiery Montana Plane Crash at Kalispell City Airport

Published Time: 08-11-2025, 16:30

A small plane crash at Kalispell City Airport in Montana on Monday ended with all four people on board escaping with minor injuries. The incident occurred during landing, when the aircraft collided with another stationary plane, sparking a fire that destroyed both aircraft.

Crash Reported Shortly After 2 p.m.

Kalispell Fire Department Chief Jay Hagen confirmed to Fox News Digital that emergency responders were dispatched at approximately 2:00 p.m. local time following reports of a crash at the airport.

Initial findings suggest the small aircraft was attempting to land when it lost control, struck another stationary plane on the ground, and burst into flames. The impact damaged both planes beyond repair.

All Occupants Escape with Minor Injuries

Chief Hagen stated that the pilot and three passengers aboard the landing aircraft were able to exit safely before the fire consumed the plane. All four sustained only minor injuries and were treated at the scene by emergency medical personnel.

Importantly, no one was on board the stationary aircraft at the time of the collision. This prevented further injuries and allowed responders to focus on extinguishing the blaze.

Witness Footage Shows Intense Flames

Cellphone videos captured by bystanders show the taxiway engulfed in flames, with thick black smoke rising into the sky. In one recording, a witness can be heard describing the moment of impact, saying the plane “hit the ground and bounced up.”

Later footage shows fire crews battling the blaze, with large areas of the pavement blackened by soot even after the flames were nearly extinguished.

Rapid Firefighting Response Prevents Wider Damage

Firefighters from Evergreen, Smith Valley, and Whitefish joined Kalispell fire crews in a mutual-aid response, quickly containing the fire before it spread further.

Hagen credited the swift action of multiple fire departments for preventing the flames from causing more extensive damage to surrounding structures or grassland. Firefighters used foam to suppress the blaze, bringing it under control within minutes.

By 4:30 p.m., all emergency personnel had cleared the scene.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have not yet released details about the cause of the crash, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is expected to conduct a formal investigation.

While small-plane crashes are rare, Montana’s rugged terrain and variable weather can present unique challenges for pilots. Kalispell City Airport, a general aviation hub, is used primarily for private and charter flights.

Community Response

The incident has drawn attention from both local residents and aviation enthusiasts. Many expressed relief that all four individuals survived without serious harm. Local officials have commended the coordinated emergency response that helped prevent what could have been a far more tragic outcome.