NTSB Releases Preliminary Report on Fatal Brett James Plane Crash

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released preliminary reports on two recent plane crashes. In Colorado Springs, a small plane crashed on Powers Boulevard after takeoff, with the pilot reporting slower-than-normal airspeed and failure to retract the landing gear, leading to an emergency landing; the pilot sustained minor injuries and passengers were unharmed, with no mechanical issues found. Separately, the fatal crash of Grammy-winning country songwriter Brett James and his family near Macon County Airport was investigated, showing the plane entered a tightening spiral during a 360-degree turn attempt before crashing in a field near a school; no engine failure was detected. James had communicated visual contact with the runway and intentions to perform the turn, but witnesses saw the plane flying unusually low and rocking before it rolled inverted and crashed. Both investigations highlight pilot control difficulties during critical flight phases, with ongoing examination of wreckage and causes. These reports provide insight into the circumstances leading to these aviation incidents and the challenges pilots faced during these emergencies.