By Joyce Kryszak
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-918278.mp3
Buffalo, NY – A preliminary report was released on the investigation into a small plane that crashed earlier this month in Niagara County killing one passenger.
According to the National Transportation Safety Board, the pilot of the cessna was distracted. The early findings also indicate no mechanical troubles with the aircraft which was was carrying skydivers. NTSB investigator Luke Schiada stressed these are only preliminary findings.
He said it will take about six months for the next report and about a year for a probable cause to be determined. But Schiada said investigators do have some details now from speaking with the pilot and others who were on board.
"The jump door opened just as the aircraft was lifting off the runway. One of the jumpers was trying to close the door, the pilot was distracted during this time and the aircraft did subsequently strike a stand of tress," said Schiada.
53-year-old Thomas Medbury of Akron died from his injuries. Joyce Kryszak - WBFO News.