The NTSB and the FAA will begin their investigation into the fiery crash at Ryan Field, near West Glacier Saturday morning. Two people died when the small plane went off the runway and burst into flames.
Deputies arrived at a little after 9:30 Saturday morning, calling in firefighters from the Hungry Horse, Martin City and Coram-West Glacier Departments. Witnesses say the plane was taking off when it suddenly lost altitude, crashing not far from the end of the grass runway.
Ryan Field, about a mile southeast of West Glacier, is a backcountry airstrip, complete with camping facilities, including cabins and restrooms. Many fly into Ryan Field to access trails in the immediate vicinity.
Identities of those on the plane are being withheld pending family notifications.
