3 injured when plane crashes into Vermont mountainside

Authorities are investigating after a small plane crashed into a Vermont mountain during the predawn hours on Wednesday, prompting a rescue effort that required the use of a helicopter and snowmobiles to reach the three injured people onboard. 

In a statement, an FAA spokesperson said the Piper PA-28 crashed in Manchester, Vermont, around 3:50 a.m. 

Manchester police said they were notified of the crash around 8:30 a.m., learning that the plane crashed on the side of Mount Equinox, near the summit. The three people on board were reported to have injuries that were not life-threatening. 

Multiple agencies responded to assist with the rescue efforts to reach the crash site, police said. 

“Rescue crews faced extremely difficult conditions, navigating through snow up to four feet deep near the top of the mountain,” police said. “Crews attempted access via Skyline Drive, which is unmaintained in winter, while others approached from West Union Street in Manchester.”

Rescuers reached the crash site around 10:16 a.m. and New York State Police Aviation then lowered rangers from a helicopter, helping to airlift the three crash victims from the hillside. 

Police said the three people were taken to the Manchester Public Safety Facility, with one of the individuals later being taken to Albany Medical Center for additional evaluation.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the greater Northshire community for their invaluable assistance,” police said. “Your support—whether through providing snowshoes, snowmobiles, or food—played a crucial role in ensuring a successful rescue operation.”

The FAA said the investigation into the crash is ongoing.