Medical Plane Crash at Raleigh-Durham Airport
Physicians and Pilot Injured in Mid-Morning Accident
On Wednesday morning, a small plane carrying a UNC Health physician and Air Operations pilot crashed at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, resulting in injuries to both individuals.
Aircraft Details
- UNC Health medical aircraft
- Returned Dr. Paul Chelminski, an internal medicine physician, from a lecture
- Registration number: N228CH
- Model: Socata TBM-850 aircraft
Injured Passengers
Crash Investigation
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board. The airfield was closed for operations but later partially reopened.
Witness Observations
Aerial footage captured by WRAL’s helicopter shows the damaged plane on the ground.
Aviation expert Jim Crouse shared his observations: “It appears that something happened on approach or shortly after touchdown. There’s a strong vertical component to the aircraft wreckage, meaning the engine is dislodged… the wings appear to be damaged vertically as well as the tail section.”
Pilot’s Experience
WRAL reported that the injured pilot had more than 20 years of experience.
Airport Response
The airport tweeted about the plane crash and airfield closure at 10:41 a.m. One runway was reopened for arriving and departing flights before noon.
Medical Plane History
UNC Health operates a fleet of medical planes to transport patients, physicians, and staff across the state of North Carolina and beyond.
Support and Condolences
UNC Health expressed their support for the injured parties and their families, along with gratitude to the first responders who assisted following the accident.
The investigation into the plane crash is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.
