Plane Crash in Elbert County, Colorado Investigating the Fatal Accident of a Vans RV-7
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, a fatal plane crash occurred near Matheson in Elbert County, Colorado, claiming the life of a 71-year-old pilot from Castle Pines. The aircraft involved was a Van’s RV-7, a two-seat, single-engine homebuilt airplane, registered as N902T, and manufactured in 2016. The plane suffered substantial damage upon impact.
Van’s RV-7 Incident Overview
At approximately 12:09 p.m. local time, the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office received a report from a resident who heard an aircraft overhead followed by a loud crash. Deputies responded to the scene near Matheson, Colorado, where they found the plane wreckage in a rural pasture about 12 miles southeast of Matheson. The sole occupant and pilot of the aircraft was pronounced dead at the scene. Initial reports suggest that the pilot likely died on impact.
The aircraft had departed from Lamar Field (LAA/KLAA) in Lamar, Colorado, and was en route to Denver-Colorado Air and Space Port (KCFO) when the crash occurred. The accident took place during the en-route phase of the flight, under unknown circumstances.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an official investigation to determine the cause of the crash. A Texas-based NTSB investigator has been dispatched to the site to conduct a thorough examination of the wreckage, review flight data, and analyze environmental conditions. Once the wreckage is fully documented, it will be transported to a secure facility for further forensic analysis.
Van’s RV-7 Aircraft Details
The Van’s RV-7 is a popular experimental homebuilt aircraft known for its impressive performance and aerobatic capabilities.First introduced in 2001 as a successor to the RV-6, the RV-7 features a more refined aerodynamic design and improved structural layout.
- Type: Van’s RV-7 (Experimental Kit Aircraft)
- Owner/Operator: Private
- Registration: N902T
- Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN): 70284
- Year of Manufacture: 2016
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 1,800 lbs
- Cruising Speed: 207 mph
- Phase of Flight: En route
- Aircraft Damage: Substantial
While the RV-7 is designed for both cross-country flying and aerobatics, its experimental classification means that the quality of assembly and maintenance varies depending on the builder.
Van’s RV-7 Ongoing Investigation
The NTSB and FAA will investigate multiple factors to determine the cause of the crash:
1. Pilot’s Background
- Reviewing flight history, training, and certification records
- Assessing the pilot’s health and medical condition prior to the flight
- Checking recent flight activity and experience with the RV-7
2. Aircraft Condition
- Inspecting maintenance records and any recent modifications to the aircraft
- Evaluating the structural integrity of the plane post-crash
- Investigating potential mechanical failures, including the engine and control systems
3. Environmental and External Factors
- Reviewing weather conditions at the time of the flight
- Checking if wind, turbulence, or visibility issues played a role
- Evaluating airspace conditions and possible mid-air conflicts
Were You or Someone You Know Affected
Van’s RV-7 Key Initial Findings
- The wreckage showed substantial structural damage consistent with a high-impact collision.
- No distress call was recorded before the crash.
- There were no immediate signs of in-flight fire or explosion.
- FAA records will be reviewed to determine whether the aircraft was subject to recent airworthiness directives or safety bulletins.
Authorities have requested that any witnesses or individuals with relevant information contact the NTSB at witness@ntsb.gov. Additionally, flight tracking data, surveillance footage, and eyewitness accounts will be used to help reconstruct the aircraft’s final moments.
Community Impact and Safety Considerations
The loss of a pilot in this accident has deeply affected the local community, particularly aviation enthusiasts in the area. This event serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with experimental aircraft and the importance of:
- Thorough Pre-Flight Inspections: Ensuring all systems are functional before takeoff.
- Ongoing Training and Safety Checks: Staying current on emergency procedures and aircraft handling.
- Weather Awareness: Understanding conditions that may impact flight stability.
- Aircraft Modifications: Ensuring that any modifications adhere to FAA and manufacturer safety guidelines.
The experimental nature of the RV-7 allows pilots to customize their planes, but it also requires strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent incidents like this one.
Final Thoughts
As the NTSB and FAA continue their investigation, further details will emerge that may help clarify the cause of the crash and provide valuable lessons for the aviation community. Families, fellow pilots, and aviation safety advocates await the official findings, which will be crucial in preventing similar incidents in the future.
For ongoing updates, refer to NTSB reports and official aviation safety bulletins.
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NTSB investigating Saturday's crash of a Vans RV-7 airplane near Matheson, Colorado.
— NTSB Newsroom (@NTSB_Newsroom) March 1, 2025
Experts in Aviation Law
- Pilot Certificate Defense
- FAA Medical Denial
- Aircraft Crashes
- FAA DUI Reporting
- Civil Penalties
- NTSB Appeals
- And More!
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