A small plane crashed in Tennessee on Saturday morning, killing three people. The plane was close to landing at the Upper Cumberland Regional Airport when it went down. It had taken off earlier from Alabama. Now, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are looking into what happened. Here is what we know so far.
What Happened?
On April 26, 2025, around 11:50 a.m., airport workers at Upper Cumberland Regional Airport got reports about a possible crash. The Memphis Air Traffic Control Center also called after losing contact with a plane.
The aircraft was a Mooney M20TN, a small single-engine plane. It had left Alabama and was getting ready to land when the crash happened.
Rescue teams rushed to find the plane. Volunteers and emergency workers joined the search. The airport even sent another plane to look from the sky. After some time, they found the crash site.
Sadly, all three people on board were killed. Officials have not shared their names yet.
Where Did the Plane Crash?
The plane crashed in a remote part of White County, Tennessee. It was south of the Upper Cumberland Regional Airport.
Airport Director Dean Selby said the area was very hard to reach. There were thick woods and rough ground, which slowed rescue efforts.
When the reports came in, it was not clear exactly where the plane was. A search plane helped find it by spotting broken trees and wreckage from the air. Rescue workers then hiked into the area.
How Was the Plane Found?
As soon as the airport knew a plane was missing, they started an emergency plan. Firefighters, rescue teams, and local volunteers helped search.
Since the crash happened in a thick forest, it was hard to find the wreck from the ground. The airport decided to use a plane to search from the air.
The aerial team saw signs of a crash, like broken trees. They then helped guide ground crews to the site. Thanks to teamwork, they were able to find the plane faster.
Who Is Investigating the Crash?
The NTSB is leading the investigation, with help from the FAA.
The FAA arrived at the scene a few hours after the crash. The NTSB’s job is to find out what caused the crash. They will study many things, like:
The weather at the time
The plane’s maintenance history
The pilot’s experience
Communication with air traffic control
Investigators will also look at any recordings and flight data if available. It may take several months for a full report. A short, early report could come out in a few weeks.
About the Mooney M20TN Aircraft
The plane that crashed was a Mooney M20TN. This is a small, fast, and efficient single-engine plane.
The M20TN is popular among private pilots. It can hold up to four people. It is known for being able to fly fast — about 220 miles per hour — while saving fuel.
Some key facts about the Mooney M20TN:
Single engine
Seats four people
Turbocharged for better performance
Modern navigation and control systems
The plane has a good safety record, but, like all aircraft, it needs regular care and a skilled pilot.
What Happens Next?
Now that the crash site has been found, the focus turns to the investigation.
The NTSB will:
Collect evidence from the wreckage
Review the pilot’s flight records
Study the plane’s maintenance history
Check radar and weather reports
The first short report usually comes within a few weeks. The final full report may take up to a year or more.
Meanwhile, local authorities are helping the families of the victims.
Final Thoughts
Plane crashes are rare but very serious. They are always carefully investigated to make flying even safer.
The small plane crash in Tennessee is a tragedy. We hope the investigation will give answers to the families and help prevent future accidents.
Our hearts are with everyone affected by this sad event.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What caused the plane crash in Tennessee?
The cause is not known yet. The NTSB and FAA are still investigating.
Who were the victims of the crash?
Officials have not shared the names of the three people who died. Families are being notified first.
What kind of plane was involved?
It was a Mooney M20TN. This is a small, fast plane often used by private pilots.
How long will the investigation take?
A first short report may be ready in a few weeks. A full report can take 12 to 18 months.
Who investigates plane crashes in the United States?
The NTSB investigates plane crashes, with help from the FAA.