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Airplane Bursts Into Flames at Illinois Airport, Pilot Dies

An airplane pilot died at an Illinois airport on Thursday afternoon. The small plane crash took place at the Chicago Rockford International Airport.

According to the authorities, a small Beechcraft King Air 200 twin-prop two-engine plane taxied out of Runway One at 3:40 p.m. Two minutes later, airport rescue and firefighter squads received a call about a fire on the field, CBSN Chicago reports.

Shortly thereafter, the rescue team discovered the King Airplane on a perimeter road east of the runway.

While the Super King 200 planes carry up to 12, the pilot was the only person on board. However, officials reported that the pilot could not manage to exit the plane. Bill Hintz, the Winnebago County Coroner, confirmed that the pilot died in the crash.

By 5:50 p.m., the airport reopened the runway. At the scene, the charred aircraft’s remains were visible.

The investigators know little at this time in regards to the cause of the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board plans to investigate the incident as well as the Federal Aviation Administration.

Airport chief Mike Dunn addressed the crash. “First and foremost, we extend our thoughts and prayers to the individual on board and the family,” Dunn said. “We also want to thank all of the first responders who were on scene and assisted with the efforts.”

Deputy Michelle Cassaro explains that the firefighters extinguished the flame in 10 minutes. “Our crews responded very quickly, and we are pleased with their response,” Cassaro said.

Chicago Rockford lies a few miles south of the city of Rockford and around 90 miles from the windy city. In addition to O’Hare and Midway, Rockford is the state’s third busiest airport.

[H/T Daily Mail]

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