One Dead, One Injured In Alta Ski Area Plane Crash

A serene Sunday afternoon in the Albion Basin near Alta Ski Area turned tragic when a small aircraft carrying two passengers crashed just after 5:20 p.m., leaving one person dead and another critically injured.

According to the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the plane went down in Little Cottonwood Canyon, a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. First responders from the Unified Fire Authority and the Alta Marshal’s Office arrived swiftly at the scene. One occupant was pronounced dead on site, while the other was airlifted to the University of Utah Hospital in critical condition.

Witnesses described seeing the plane flying at an unusually low altitude before it disappeared from view behind the trees, followed by a large cloud of dust. Bystanders, including a couple who were taking photos, rushed to the crash site to offer assistance before emergency personnel arrived.. Crystal Hulse and Hunter Priest, who were taking engagement photos nearby, rushed to help. “One guy crawled out of the plane,” Priest recalled.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to begin their investigation on Monday. In the meantime, officials have urged the public to avoid the area to ensure safety and preserve the crash site for investigators.

Alta Mayor Roger Bourke expressed his condolences: “Our hearts go out to the families and friends and loved ones of those who've been injured or died in this.” The Albion Basin campground, scheduled to close for the season, will be assisted in evacuation by the Alta Marshal’s Office.

The identities of the victims have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. As the community reels from the shock, many are praising the swift response and compassion shown by bystanders and emergency personnel alike.