NTSB Report Reveals Radio Problem Before California Plane Crash Killed Family of Four

The National Transportation Safety Board has released its preliminary report on the September 5 plane crash at Sierra Sky Park Airport in Fresno, California, that killed four members of the Eady family.

Pilot Danna Eady, her husband Craig and their two youngest sons were aboard the Grumman AA-5 when it crashed shortly after takeoff.

First Takeoff Aborted After Radio Problem

Surveillance footage showed the aircraft beginning an initial takeoff before aborting about halfway down the runway and returning to the owner’s residence at the airport.

Text messages indicated that Danna Eady was experiencing a radio problem. A mechanic inspected the aircraft before it taxied toward the runway for a second takeoff attempt.

Witnesses said the airplane’s nose suddenly pitched upward as it lifted off. The engine reportedly sounded weak but was not misfiring or sputtering.

The aircraft continued in a nose-high position approximately 30 to 40 feet above the ground before disappearing from view.

Aircraft Struck Tree and Caught Fire

The plane crashed about 1,000 feet northwest of the runway, first striking a large branch near the top of a 40-foot tree.

A fire that erupted after the impact destroyed most of the aircraft and burned approximately one acre surrounding the crash site.

The couple’s two sons died at the scene. Danna Eady died from her injuries later that evening, while Craig Eady died two days later after suffering severe burns.

Investigators moved the wreckage to a secure facility for further examination. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.