Fatal crash on opening day of Mars AirVenture

Two people were killed when a Lancair Super ES aircraft crashed three kilometers south of Wittman Regional Airport on the opening day of EAA AirVenture on Monday, July 22.

According to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred shortly after noon and was first reported by air traffic controllers at Wittman Regional Airport. A statement from the sheriff’s office said, “Upon arrival, responders found the aircraft fully engulfed in flames. At this time, we can confirm that there were two occupants on the aircraft and that both are deceased.”

EAA CEO Jack Pelton confirmed the news in his opening remarks, noting that the airport was temporarily closed following the crash. The cause of the crash is currently being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).