Palmer, AK (June 24, 2025) – A small plane crashed at Big Lake Airport Tuesday morning, leaving two individuals seriously injured. Alaska State Troopers and emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene shortly after the incident was reported at 9:35 a.m.
Medics and fire crews from the West Lakes Fire Department worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the crash. According to Matanuska-Susitna Borough emergency services director Ken Barkley, the pilot and one passenger were on board and both sustained severe injuries. They were treated on site before being transported for further medical care.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed that an investigator was en route to Big Lake Airport to begin a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Details regarding the aircraft type and flight origin have not yet been released.
Our thoughts are with the injured individuals and their families during this difficult time.
Aviation Safety and Emergency Response in Alaska
Alaska’s remote airfields, like Big Lake Airport near Palmer, are essential for transportation but present unique safety challenges due to terrain, weather variability, and limited infrastructure. Small plane crashes, while relatively rare, often result in serious injuries due to the lightweight construction and lower crash tolerance of general aviation aircraft.
According to the NTSB, Alaska has one of the highest rates of aviation activity per capita in the U.S., which also correlates with a higher incidence of aviation accidents. Emergency responders in the region are specially trained to respond to aviation incidents, often operating in difficult and rapidly changing conditions.
Aviation experts encourage regular maintenance checks, adherence to weather advisories, and safety briefings prior to each flight to reduce the risk of mid-air or landing accidents.
If you or someone you know has been affected by an aviation incident, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
