Montana DNRC plane used for fire detection crashes

MT DNRC plane crash
KRTV photo

A small plane owned by the Montana Department of Natural Resources (DNRC) crashed Wednesday at the Helena Regional Airport. The two pilots on board, who were conducting a training exercise at the time, were not injured.

The DNRC is not saying what they suspect caused the crash, nor will they provide the names of the pilots until after the NTSB completes their investigation.

The DNRC uses the Cessna 180 for wildfire detection and coordination.

UPDATE @ 10:33 MT, January 27, 2011

The pilot was performing crosswind touch-and-go landings when the accident occurred. The aircraft ended up beside the runway upside down. Both the pilot and the passenger, who was also a pilot, walked away. A report today said the aircraft was a Cessna 185 and that there was visible damage to the front of the plane and the propeller.

Typos, let us know HERE, and specify which article. Please read the commenting rules before you post a comment.

Author: Bill Gabbert

After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.