What happened
On February 13, 2026, an EPIC E1CO00 bearing registration N98FK crashed in the mountains near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The flight, operated by ALS Aviation LLC under Part 91 regulations, originated from John C. Tune Airport (JWN) in Nashville, Tennessee, with a scheduled refueling stop at Kansas City Downtown Airport-Wheeler Field (MKC).
After departing Kansas City at approximately 2303 CST, the pilot was cleared by air traffic control for an RNAV approach to Steamboat Springs Airport/Bob Adams Field (SBS). During the approach, the pilot indicated an intention to fly the RNAV 32 approach. Following a frequency change to the airport's common traffic advisory frequency, the pilot ceased all communications.
An Alert Notice was issued, leading to a search that located the wreckage approximately 3 miles south of SBS at an elevation of 8,200 ft MSL. The accident resulted in 4 fatal injuries for the pilot and three passengers.
At the time of the accident, weather conditions were VMC with 10 statute miles of visibility. However, reports indicated scattered clouds at 500 ft AGL, broken clouds at 1,600 ft AGL, and overcast clouds at 2,400 ft AGL. The RNAV Z RWY 32 approach plate specifies that the approach is not authorized at night and notes visual segment obstacles.
The investigation
Data recovered from the aircraft's Garmin G1000 system indicated the engine was operating normally, with the engine producing approximately 1,700 propeller RPM and 92% gas generator speed. The recorded engine parameters were consistent with normal operation, and approximately 100 gallons of fuel remained in the aircraft. The autopilot was engaged at the time of the last recorded altitude of 8,221 ft MSL, which was below the approach's minimum descent altitude of 9,100 ft MSL.
Investigators found a ground scar approximately 80 ft south of the main wreckage. The initial impact scars were aligned on an estimated 340° true heading, and an odor of jet fuel was present at the site. Post-accident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no pre-impact anomalies that would have prevented normal operation.