San Diego airport crash kills two in Cessna fire

Two people died following a Cessna Skyhawk aircraft crash at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in San Diego on the evening of September 7, 2026. The incident occurred during the Labor Day holiday at approximately 17:20 local time.

Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft tilt to the right during its approach, with a wing striking the ground. The plane quickly caught fire upon impact. San Diego Fire-Rescue Assistant Chief Brian Raines stated that the aircraft was so heavily damaged by the time crews arrived that extrication was impossible.

One witness suggested the aircraft may have been performing touch-and-go maneuvers at the time of the accident. Investigators have not yet confirmed if the plane was in the process of landing or taking off. The identities of the deceased have not been released.