Plane had radio issue before fatal Fresno crash, NTSB report says

A plane carrying a family of four experienced a radio issue and an aborted takeoff before crashing near Fresno on September 5, according to a preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The Grumman American Aviation Corp. AA-5 was en route to an airshow in Atwater, California, when it crashed during its initial climb, an event the NTSB identified as a loss of control in flight.

The pilot, Danna Eady, 41, and her husband, Craig Eady, 44, along with their two youngest sons, Pavel and Remus, were killed in the crash. Danna and Craig Eady initially survived but later succumbed to their injuries. The couple is also survived by two older children, Lucien, 17, and Felicity, 18.

Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators showed the aircraft departing from Sierra Sky Park Airport. The plane began its takeoff run but aborted the attempt about halfway down the runway. It then turned around and taxied back.

Eady informed the aircraft's owner via text message about a radio problem. The plane returned to the owner's residence, and a mechanic was called to assist with troubleshooting the issue.

After the aircraft was shut down and the mechanic approached, the plane taxied back to the runway for a second takeoff attempt. Witnesses reported that during this takeoff, the plane became airborne approximately 1,000 feet before the end of the runway and pitched sharply into a nose-high attitude. Witnesses also noted that the engine sounded weak but did not appear to misfire.

Surveillance footage captured the plane flying about 30 feet above the ground in a steep nose-high position before it crashed into a washout. The aircraft first struck a large branch on a tree before coming to rest upright. A fire subsequently erupted, consuming much of the plane.

The wreckage was recovered and transported to a secure facility for further examination. The NTSB's investigation is ongoing, and the agency cautioned that the preliminary report's findings could change as more evidence is gathered.