Tragedy narrowly avoided at Cross Keys Airport
A skydiving adventure turned into a dramatic rescue operation Wednesday evening when a plane carrying 15 people crashed into the woods near Cross Keys Airport in southern New Jersey. The Cessna 208B, operated by ARNE Aviation and leased to Skydive Cross Keys, experienced engine trouble shortly after takeoff and was unable to return safely to the runway, according to local officials and the Federal Aviation Administration.
Engine Trouble Leads to Crash
The incident unfolded around 5:30 p.m., just southeast of Philadelphia. Andrew Halter of Gloucester County Emergency Management explained that the pilot reported engine difficulties while climbing and attempted to circle back for a landing, but was unsuccessful. The plane veered off the end of the runway and crashed into a wooded area, breaking apart and leaving debris scattered among the trees.
Injuries and Emergency Response
All 15 people onboard, including the pilot and skydivers, survived the crash but sustained injuries ranging from minor to critical. Many were found covered in jet fuel and required decontamination before being transported to area hospitals. Three patients were taken to Cooper University Hospital’s trauma center in Camden, while eight others were treated for less severe injuries in the emergency department. Four more with minimal injuries awaited further evaluation.
Emergency crews, fire trucks, and medical teams rushed to the scene, and aerial footage showed stretchers being carried out of the woods to waiting medevac helicopters. Remarkably, no fatalities were reported, and officials called it “truly impressive” that everyone survived the crash.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and FAA have launched investigations into the cause of the crash. Early reports suggest the engine trouble was sudden, and the pilot had little time to react. The plane involved had previously been in a separate incident in Virginia in 2023, but there is no indication yet that the two events are related.
Governor Phil Murphy said he had been briefed and confirmed there were “no fatalities at this time.” Local authorities have asked the public to avoid the area to allow emergency vehicles access to the crash site.
Skydiving Community Shaken
Skydive Cross Keys, the commercial skydiving company operating at the airport, has not yet commented publicly on the crash. The incident has left the local skydiving community shaken, as Cross Keys Airport is a popular destination for skydiving lessons and jumps.
The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected in the coming days. For now, the focus remains on the recovery of those injured and the efforts of first responders who prevented a greater tragedy.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.