What happened
On July 26, 2024, a Pilatus PC-12/47E, registration N357HE, crashed near Recluse, Wyoming, resulting in 7 fatal injuries. The aircraft was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal flight.
According to FAA ADS-B data, the flight departed Nebraska City Municipal Airport in Nebraska at approximately 1200 mountain daylight time, traveling northwest toward Billings Logan International Airport in Montana. During the flight, the aircraft reached a maximum cruise altitude of 26,000 feet MSL. At approximately 1302, the aircraft performed a series of maneuvers, including a 270-degree right turn and a subsequent 180-degree right turn involving altitude changes.
During the final portion of the flight, the pilot contacted the Salt Lake City Air Route Traffic Control Center to declare an emergency, reporting a loss of autopilot. The pilot stated they were attempting to regain control of the aircraft. After the pilot failed to respond to further inquiries regarding landing intentions and altitude information, the FAA issued an Alert Notice (ALNOT) following the loss of radio and radar contact.
Local law enforcement later located the wreckage in remote terrain approximately 12 miles northeast of Recluse. Witnesses at the site reported hearing a loud whining noise and seeing smoke. One witness also observed the aircraft performing a barrel roll with a loud engine roar prior to impact.
The investigation
Investigation of the accident site showed the aircraft impacted the terrain on a magnetic heading of approximately 099°. The main wreckage was situated on a 20-degree slope at an elevation of about 4,030 feet MSL. The initial impact created a ground disturbance measuring 10 feet in length, 41 feet in width, and 6 feet in depth, where most of the wreckage was embedded.
A post-impact fire burned approximately 40 acres of vegetation. Debris, including sections of the left wing, was found along a path extending 0.82 miles from the main wreckage. All major components of the aircraft were recovered within the accident site and the debris path, and the wreckage was moved to a secure facility for examination.