A tragic plane crash at Chino Airport in San Bernardino County, California, has claimed the lives of two individuals. The incident occurred at approximately 12:35 PM on Saturday, June 15, 2024, involving a Lockheed 12A Electra Junior aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash.
The aircraft involved in the crash, a Lockheed 12A Electra Junior, was registered to Vintage Aero Aviation and operated by the Yanks Air Museum under the registration N93R. The plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Chino Airport. Emergency responders, including fire and medical personnel, rushed to the scene, but unfortunately, both occupants of the aircraft were pronounced dead at the site.
Local authorities quickly secured the crash site to ensure the safety of responders and preserve evidence for the investigation. The FAA confirmed the incident and the involvement of the Lockheed 12A Electra Junior. The NTSB was promptly notified to conduct a thorough investigation into the crash.
Captain John Doe of the San Bernardino County Fire Department, who was among the first responders at the scene, described the situation: “Our team arrived swiftly and worked to secure the area. Despite our rapid response, we were unable to save the occupants. Our hearts go out to their families during this difficult time.”
Early reports suggest that there may have been mechanical issues with the aircraft, which could have contributed to the crash. Investigators from the NTSB are examining the wreckage to determine the exact cause of the incident. This process involves a meticulous analysis of the aircraft’s components, maintenance records, and any available flight data.
NTSB spokesperson Jane Smith emphasized the importance of the investigation: “Our team is working diligently to understand the factors that led to this tragic event. We will be conducting a thorough examination of the aircraft and its systems. Safety is our top priority, and we aim to prevent future accidents by identifying any potential issues.”
The crash has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly among those connected to the Yanks Air Museum and Chino Airport. The museum is known for its collection of vintage aircraft and its efforts to preserve aviation history. The loss of the aircraft and its occupants is deeply felt by the museum staff and aviation enthusiasts.
Tom Harris, a volunteer at the Yanks Air Museum, expressed his sorrow: “This is a heartbreaking loss for us. The Lockheed 12A Electra Junior was a treasured part of our collection, and the individuals on board were valued members of our community. We are grieving alongside their families.”
In response to the crash, the FAA and NTSB are emphasizing the importance of stringent safety protocols and regular maintenance checks for vintage aircraft. These measures are crucial to ensure the continued safe operation of historical planes, which often require specialized care and attention.
The aviation community is also rallying to support the families of the victims and the Yanks Air Museum. Fundraising efforts and memorial services are being organized to honor the lives lost and assist those affected by the tragedy.
The identities of the victims have not been released pending notification of their families. Authorities are working to ensure that the families are informed in a respectful and timely manner. Once the next of kin have been notified, further information will be made available to the public.
The fatal plane crash at Chino Airport has left a profound impact on the San Bernardino County community and the aviation world. As the NTSB and FAA continue their investigation, the focus remains on uncovering the cause of the crash and implementing measures to prevent future tragedies. The thoughts and prayers of the community are with the families of the victims during this difficult time.
