News Summary
A single-engine Cirrus SR22 plane crashed near the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, on September 28, resulting in the deaths of all five passengers aboard, including a minor. Eyewitnesses reported difficulties during landing, leading to the aircraft colliding with trees. The NTSB is now investigating the crash, which took place in a wooded area and caused a fire upon impact. Local authorities have closed First Flight Airport and the Wright Brothers Memorial as investigations continue.
Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina – A tragic plane crash occurred on Saturday, September 28, at approximately 5 p.m. local time near the Wright Brothers National Memorial at First Flight Airport, resulting in the deaths of all five passengers aboard the aircraft, including one minor.
The single-engine plane, identified as a Cirrus SR22, was returning from a multi-leg flight with its last departure from Dare County Regional Airport. Eyewitnesses reported that the plane was attempting to land for the second time on runway 21 when it went down. Initial accounts from the National Park Service confirm that there are no survivors.
The crash site, which is situated in a wooded area adjacent to the runway, ignited a fire upon impact. Local fire departments, including the Kill Devil Hills Fire Department, quickly responded to the scene and successfully extinguished the fire. The First Flight Airport has been closed until further notice as authorities investigate the situation. The airport is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, October 1, 2025, at 9 a.m.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation into the incident, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been notified of the crash. NTSB investigators are currently documenting the wreckage and will transport it to a secure facility for further analysis. A preliminary report from the NTSB is anticipated within 30 days of the crash.
According to preliminary findings, the Cirrus SR22 experienced difficulties during its landing approach, failing to successfully land on the first attempt. During the second approach, the aircraft reportedly made a left turn and collided with the trees surrounding the airport.
In light of the incident, the Wright Brothers National Memorial has also closed its grounds as a safety measure and while investigations are underway. Updates regarding the crash and information about the victims will be released in the following days.
The crash at the site of such historic significance, where the Wright brothers took their first flight, adds an additional layer of sadness to the unfolding tragedy. The area is known for its rich aviation history, drawing visitors from around the country to celebrate human flight’s beginnings.
As the investigation continues, both the NTSB and FAA are expected to work closely to determine the cause of the crash and to ensure that necessary safety measures are addressed moving forward.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Early Morning Fire Claims Three Lives in Kill Devil Hills
Serious Car Crash Shakes Calm of Kill Devil Hills
Heroic Three-Legged Dog Saves Family from Fire in Kill Devil Hills
Tragic House Fire Claims Three Lives in Kill Devil Hills
Early Morning Blaze in Kill Devil Hills Sends Residents Packing
Kill Devil Hills Leads North Carolina’s Housing Market
Tragic Plane Crash Near Kill Devil Hills Claims Lives
Discover Ocracoke Island: North Carolina’s Hidden Gem
Tragic Plane Crash in Kill Devil Hills Claims Five Lives
Tragic Accident on Outer Banks: A Heartbreaking Loss
Additional Resources
- WTKR
- Wikipedia: Wright Brothers National Memorial
- ABC 11
- Google Search: Kill Devil Hills plane crash
- Fox News
- Sky News
- New York Times
- Google News: Wright Brothers plane crash
- People
- Encyclopedia Britannica: aviation safety
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
