This article is based on an official preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and local reporting.

NTSB Issues Preliminary Report on Fatal Sonex Onex Crash in Caldwell, Idaho

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its preliminary report regarding the fatal aviation accident that occurred on February 6, 2026, in Caldwell, Idaho. The investigation focuses on the crash of a Sonex Aircraft Onex, an experimental amateur-built plane, which resulted in the death of the pilot shortly after takeoff from Caldwell Executive Airport (KEUL).

While initial data streams may have misidentified the location as Caldwell, Texas, the NTSB and local authorities have confirmed the incident took place in Idaho. The preliminary document outlines the factual sequence of events known to investigators at this stage, though a determination of probable cause remains pending as the inquiry proceeds.

According to the NTSB, the accident occurred at approximately 11:30 AM MST under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC). The release of this report marks the first official federal documentation of the tragedy, providing a baseline for the ongoing safety investigation led by federal authorities with support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Flight Sequence and Crash Details

The preliminary findings indicate that the aircraft, identified by registration number N362DZ, departed from Caldwell Executive Airport late in the morning. Witnesses and local authorities reported that the flight was brief. Shortly after lifting off, the single-seat aircraft descended and impacted the ground near the intersection of Ustick Road and Aviation Way, just outside the airport’s perimeter.

The NTSB report notes that the aircraft sustained “substantial damage” upon impact. Following the crash, the airframe was consumed by a post-impact fire. Emergency response teams from the Caldwell Fire Department arrived on the scene shortly before 11:30 AM to manage the blaze, but the pilot had already succumbed to the crash trauma.

Local officials, including the Canyon County Coroner, identified the pilot as 79-year-old Bayne Just, a resident of Nampa, Idaho. He was the sole occupant of the aircraft. Authorities confirmed there were no injuries to persons on the ground.

Investigation Status and Aircraft Background

Preliminary Findings

As is standard for NTSB investigations, the preliminary report does not speculate on the cause of the accident. Instead, it catalogues the immediate environmental conditions and the state of the wreckage. Investigators noted that weather conditions were clear at the time of the flight, suggesting that adverse weather was likely not a primary factor. The investigation is currently examining the wreckage, pilot records, and aircraft maintenance history to determine if mechanical failure or pilot error played a role.

The Sonex Onex Platform

The aircraft involved was a Sonex Aircraft Onex (pronounced “One-Ex”). This model is a popular experimental, amateur-built kit plane designed for a single pilot. It is well-regarded in the aviation community for its compact size and folding wings, which allow it to be stored in a standard garage. These aircraft are typically powered by Volkswagen-derived AeroVee engines or similar powerplants.

Because the aircraft operates under an experimental airworthiness certificate, the builder, often the owner, is responsible for the construction and maintenance of the vehicle. The NTSB investigation will likely review the build logs and maintenance records of N362DZ as part of the factual report phase.

AirPro News Analysis

The release of a preliminary report typically occurs 10 to 14 days after an aviation accident. It serves to inform the public and the aviation industry of the basic facts while the detailed investigation continues. For the general public, it is important to distinguish between this preliminary document and the final report.

The “probable cause” of the accident will not be determined until the final report is issued, a process that generally takes between 12 and 24 months. During this interim period, the NTSB may release a “Factual Report” containing detailed engineering and medical data. Given the experimental nature of the aircraft, investigators will pay close attention to the engine’s performance and the flight control systems, as these are critical variables in amateur-built aviation accidents.

We advise caution against speculation regarding the cause of the crash until the NTSB completes its rigorous analysis of the recovered airframe and engine components.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where did the crash occur?
The crash occurred in Caldwell, Idaho, near the Caldwell Executive Airport (KEUL), specifically at the intersection of Ustick Road and Aviation Way. Early automated reports may have incorrectly listed Caldwell, Texas.

What is a Preliminary Report?
An NTSB Preliminary Report is an initial document released shortly after an accident. It contains factual information verified at the scene, such as time, location, and weather, but does not analyze data or determine the cause of the crash.

What type of aircraft was involved?
The aircraft was a Sonex Onex, a single-seat, amateur-built experimental plane known for its folding wings and compact design.

Sources: NTSB Preliminary Report, KTVB Boise, Idaho News 6