MONTANA — Montana’s terrain and weather can make flying dangerous. This year, federal investigators say aviation accidents in the Treasure State are trending higher than normal.
Before every flight, a pilot must make a decision on whether to fly. Officials say it’s not just about whether the flight can happen but whether you should be flying.
The National Transportation Safety Board says pilots need to consider multiple factors before taking off. Especially in Montana, where weather conditions and terrain can vary.
In 2025, Montana had 24 aviation crashes. Of those crashes, eight were fatal. In 2024, the state experienced 17 crashes, with four resulting in fatalities.
The last time Montana saw more than 24 crashes was back in 2013. 29 crashes were reported, with 5 of them fatal.
The state record for aviation crashes goes back to 1982, with 57 total crashes, 11 of them fatal.
