Accident Overview
On February 6, 2026, at approximately 0945 mountain standard time, a Sonex Onex airplane, registration N362DZ, was destroyed in an accident near Caldwell, Idaho. The pilot was fatally injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Witness Observations
A witness reported observing the airplane depart runway 12 at Caldwell Executive Airport (EUL). The airplane transitioned to an initial climb, reaching an altitude of about 200–300 feet above ground level. It then entered a shallow right turn, followed by a left turn that suddenly steepened to a bank angle of about 90°. During this maneuver, the witness noted that the airplane rapidly rolled to the right and subsequently descended out of their field of view.
Wreckage and Impact
The airplane impacted a field approximately 850 feet southeast of the runway departure end, at an elevation of about 2,435 feet mean sea level. All major structural components were located at the accident site. Flight control continuity was confirmed from the cockpit to the elevator, aileron, and rudder control surfaces. The main wreckage—including the fuselage, wings, engine, and empennage—was oriented to the northeast. Impact signatures were consistent with a near wings-level attitude and a shallow descent angle. The impact ground scar was confined to the immediate wreckage area.
Post-Accident Actions
A handheld GPS unit was retained for data recovery. The wreckage was recovered and transported to a secure facility for further examination.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not determine a probable cause.