NTSB initial findings on deadly Eagle Nest plane crash.

The National Transportation Safety Board recently shared initial findings from their inquiry into a tragic plane crash near Eagle Nest on July 6. The crash claimed the life of the pilot of a Beech F35 aircraft en route to Hobbs from Angel Fire airport. Before takeoff, the pilot had refueled the plane with 28 gallons, as was typical for his work travels between the two locations. Prior to departure, the pilot's wife mentioned the stormy conditions surrounding the airport, though no issues were noted with the takeoff. Witnesses reported seeing the pilot conduct maintenance on the nose gear before departure, despite his wife noting that it was a common task due to a leak. Family members raised concern when the pilot did not reach Hobbs as expected. The wreckage was discovered two days later in challenging terrain at an elevation of 9,932 feet, with the plane having sustained heavy damage upon impact. The pilot's routine flight path typically included passing over Eagle Nest Dam before heading towards Hobbs. An investigation revealed that the airplane's ADS-B system, a GPS broadcasting tool, had been inconsistent in the months leading up to the accident. The pilot has not been identified, and the investigation remains ongoing.