NTSB investigating Monday afternoon plane crash near Neosho

Sept. 7 statement on Neosho crash:

NTSB is investigating the crash of a Zenith CH701 on Sept. 7 near Neosho, Missouri. The preliminary information we have is the plane crashed into a field under unknown circumstances.

An NTSB investigator is en route to the scene and is expected to arrive around tomorrow afternoon. Once on site, the investigator will begin the process of documenting the scene and examining the aircraft. The aircraft will then be recovered to a secure facility for further evaluation.  

NTSB investigations involve three primary areas: the pilot, the aircraft and the operating environment. As part of this process, investigators will gather the following information and records: 

• Flight track data 

• Recordings of any air traffic control communications 

• Aircraft maintenance records 

• Weather forecasts and actual weather and lighting conditions around the time of the accident 

• Pilot’s license, ratings and recency of flight experience 

• 72-hour background of the pilot to determine if there were any issues that could have affected the pilot’s ability to safely operate the flight 

• Witness statements 

• Electronic devices that could contain information relevant to the investigation 

• Any available surveillance video, including from doorbell cameras 

Witnesses to the accident or those who have surveillance video or other information that could be relevant to the investigation are asked to contact the NTSB at [email protected]. 

During the on-scene phase of the investigative process, the NTSB does not determine or speculate about the cause of the accident. 

The NTSB has no role in the release of the identities of accident victims and/or the extent and number of injuries nor does it release the identities of those injured or killed; that’s handled by local authorities.   

A preliminary report will be available within 30 days; it can be accessed by searching our investigations database with the date and location of the crash It will also be posted on NTSB Newsroom Twitter .