3 Survive Vermont Plane Crash Thanks to Deep Snow Cushioning Impact

Deep Snow Saves Three Lives After Plane Crashes into Vermont’s Mount Equinox

Things ended as well as they could have in this freak accident-turend-miracle. Photo: Pawlet Volunteer Fire Department

Soft snow and quick rescue efforts credited for preventing fatalities

Three people miraculously survived a plane crash on Vermont’s Mount Equinox early Wednesday morning, thanks to deep snow cushioning the impact. The Piper PA-28, which departed from Martin State Airport in Maryland, crashed near the summit at around 3:50 a.m., coming to rest at 3,200 feet of elevation.

Rescue crews from the Manchester Fire Department reported that the snowpack likely prevented a fatal outcome. “The snow helped cushion the fall,” said Jamie Greene, Manchester Fire Department’s First Assistant Chief.

A Tough Rescue in Extreme Conditions

The crash site was reported five hours after impact, launching a massive rescue operation involving nearly 100 personnel from multiple agencies. Waist-deep snow, subzero temperatures, and thick fog made access difficult. Rescuers used snowshoes, ATVs, and snowmobiles to reach the site.

“At approximately 8:33 a.m., the Manchester Communication Center received an E911 call reporting an airplane crash near the summit of Mount Equinox,” Greene said. “Three individuals were reported to have non-life-threatening injuries.”

Helicopters from New York State Police Aviation and Dartmouth-Hitchcock were deployed to assist. Rangers were lowered to the crash site using a winch system to secure the survivors, who were then airlifted to the Manchester Public Safety Facility. One patient was transported to Albany Medical Center for further evaluation.

Community and Crew Efforts Prove Critical

Rescue crews faced brutal conditions navigating through snow up to four feet deep near the summit. Skyline Drive, which provides access to the mountain, is unmaintained during winter, forcing crews to approach from multiple routes.

Greene praised the local community for their quick response and support. “People showed up with snowshoes, snowmobiles, and even food. Their help was crucial,” he said.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will begin their investigation into the cause of the crash on Friday. Weather, mechanical issues, and pilot decisions are all being considered, but no immediate details have been released.

Equinox Mountain is located in the southwest corner of Vermont.

Unlikely Survival on Vermont’s Highest Taconic Peak

Mount Equinox, Vermont’s tallest Taconic peak at 3,848 feet, is known for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. The mountain’s eco-friendly Saint Bruno Viewing Center at the summit offers panoramic views spanning five states. Its slopes host one of New England’s richest northern hardwood forests, preserved in partnership with The Nature Conservancy.

Vermont is currently experiencing one of its snowiest winters in decades. Jay Peak has seen more snowfall than most western resorts, including those in Colorado and Utah. The deep snowpack on Mount Equinox likely played a key role in saving the lives of the crash survivors.

“This could have ended very differently,” said Greene. “The snow saved their lives.”

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