Posted On: May 4, 2009 by New York Personal Injury Attorney

Tragic Aviation Accident Kills all 14 Aboard still Under Investigation

According to a MSNBC report, the turboprop plane that crashed in a cemetery in Butte, Montana killing all 14 passengers on Sunday, March 22, 2009 was made to hold only ten people. At first, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said they thought the plane could hold eleven people. The plane left Oroville, CA and was heading towards Bozeman, MO when it changed course to Butte without the pilot indicating any problematic issues to air traffic controllers. Acting chairman of the NTSB, Mark Rosenker, said that investigators want to find out if the plane was over its weight restrictions; however, people should not jump to conclusions that overloading was the cause of Sunday’s crash.

Seven of the fourteen victims of this fatal plane accident were children under the age of ten. Passengers were on their way to a high-class Yellowstone Club for a family skiing holiday.

“We were going on a vacation with all the grandkids,” said Irving M. “Bud” Feldkamp, who lost two daughters and their families in the accident. “They were all excited about skiing.” According to the article, Feldkamp leased the airplane that crashed. He said he, his wife and another daughter had driven to Montana for the trip.

Our hearts and deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of those who died in this catastrophic aviation accident. It is such an unimaginable experience for anyone to have to endure the death of a loved one, whether because of a plane accident caused by the negligence of an airline, mechanical failure, or pilot error.

Unfortunately, such events do happen and require thorough investigation to determine the cause and who or what was responsible. Even if the insurance company of the airline has contacted you about your case, it is important to call an experienced personal injury attorney in New York.

Family members of those killed, or anyone who has survived a plane accident and suffered injuries should get in touch with a top New York aviation accident lawyer who can help answer the complex and important questions that can help you pursue your case. At Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro, we have received settlements that have paid for wrongful death, pain and suffering, loss of property, loss of work, and much more. Our firm is equipped with skilled investigators and attorneys to put together a meticulous independent inquiry for you. Call us today at 212-986-7353 for a free consultation.