Passenger Plane Crashes Near Sacramento International Airport

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Yesterday at 2:11 p.m. Sacramento Fire Department units responded to the report of a downed aircraft about 2 miles south of Sacramento International Airport.  Because of the remote location, it took fire companies nearly nine minutes to locate the aircraft and ensure the safety of the sole person on board, Robert Nicholson, 77.

Mr. Nicholson stated that he was flying from El Monte, CA to an airfield at U.C. Davis.  He was approximately two-hours into his flight and began his descent in preparation for his destination.  He was at 4,500 feet elevation when his single engine Beach-craft Bonanza V-35B cut out.  He attempted to switch fuel tanks but was unsuccessful in his attempts to re-start the aircraft.  He located a remote field and navigated his way to a rough landing.

While approaching the open field, his aircraft clipped power lines which started a small grass fire.  The fire only grew to a quarter acre in size and was controlled by Sacramento Fire Companies.  Mr. Nicholson exited his aircraft on his own and met the fire companies on his feet.  He was examined by on-site paramedics and did not request any further care.

This accident, like most aircraft accidents, is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board with the assistance of the Federal Aviation Administration. A unified command was established which included the Sacramento Fire Department, the Sacramento County Airport System Aircraft Rescue & Firefighting, and the California Highway Patrol.



Author:Sacramento Fire Department Press Release