A stolen plane crashed into a building at a major airport in Los Angeles after being taken from a flight school. The incident occurred early Thursday morning at Van Nuys Airport. Shocking images captured the moment the single-engine Cessna went nose first into the building, causing a significant hole in the hangar.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the small plane collided with the building around 5 am local time. Law enforcement officials from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the FBI quickly responded to the scene. One suspect has been apprehended on suspicion of burglary and aircraft theft, according to LAPD statements. It remains unclear if there were any injuries resulting from the crash or if additional suspects are being sought.
Reports indicate that the stolen plane originated from a flight training facility near Balboa Boulevard, as per KTLA. The FBI confirmed that the plane was on the ground, not in flight, when it struck the hangar. Subsequently, the aircraft was safely removed and secured within the flight academy premises.
The FAA has initiated an investigation into the incident, with an official spokesperson mentioning that the inquiry is still in its early stages and details may evolve. Van Nuys Airport, situated in the San Fernando Valley, is a bustling hub managed by Los Angeles World Airports, the same authority overseeing Los Angeles International Airport. The airport accommodates over 200 businesses, offering services such as aircraft fueling, storage, and private charters.