A small airplane crashed while departing from Long Island MacArthur Airport in Ronkonkoma, New York, on Monday evening, July 22, 2024, killing both people on board. The incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. and involved a single-engine Beechcraft Bonanza A-36 piloted by 46-year-old Christopher Kucera and his partner, 43-year-old Zachary Hatcher.
Witnesses reported that the plane attempted to return to the runway shortly after takeoff but plummeted to the ground from an altitude of approximately 150 feet. “Three witnesses all made the same observation: They saw the plane take off, and it was popping and sputtering. At that moment, the engine ceased to produce power,” said Aaron McCarter, an aviation accident investigator with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Kucera and Hatcher, both residents of Virginia, were visiting friends on Long Island and were returning home to Port Royal when the crash occurred. Kucera’s brother, Michael, shared that the couple had recently renovated a historic farm in Port Royal. “We are devastated, the whole family is devastated,” Michael said. “I pray for my brother and my lifelong best friend. Chris died doing what he loved most with the person he loved most. So we are grateful for that.”
Hatcher was recently appointed CEO of the Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region and was set to start his new role next month. He had previously served as the senior director of development for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, making significant contributions to the community.
Kucera, an experienced pilot, had obtained his pilot’s license at just 17 years old and had logged approximately 1,500 hours flying the Beechcraft Bonanza A-36. He studied aeronautical engineering in college and had a deep love for aviation. “This situation does not involve an inexperienced pilot. From my perspective, this is an instance of engine failure,” said Michael Kucera.
Authorities reported that the plane had recently undergone its annual inspection, and no mayday call was made before the crash. The NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the cause of the crash. “Considering the loss of power so soon after takeoff, Chris is a hero for avoiding casualties on the ground,” Michael Kucera added.
The wreckage will be moved to a hangar for further examination as investigators determine the exact cause of the engine failure. The investigation is expected to be thorough and detailed, focusing on the pilot, the aircraft, and the operating environment. According to Keith Holloway, an NTSB spokesperson, the investigation will involve gathering air traffic control communications, radar data, weather reports, and other relevant records.