Community Heroes Come Together to Help Pilot After Pacoima Plane Crash

Small Plane Crash in Pacoima Leaves Pilot in Critical Condition

PACOIMA, Calif. – A small Cessna 172 aircraft crashed in Pacoima on Monday morning after clipping a high-voltage power line, resulting in the pilot being hospitalized in critical condition.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:08 a.m. near 10800 N. San Fernando Road, where the aircraft came to rest overturned in the parking lot of an auto parts store. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that downed power lines were also observed in the vicinity of Ralston Avenue and Van Nuys Boulevard.

Witnesses at the scene captured video of several bystanders who rushed to the wreckage to help rescue the pilot, an elderly man estimated to be around 70 years old. He was subsequently transported to a local hospital, where he is receiving treatment.

According to the county Department of Public Works, the aircraft was returning to Whiteman Airport when the crash took place. The downed power lines led to widespread electrical outages, impacting numerous traffic signals and contributing to significant congestion on local roadways.

Local residents have expressed ongoing concerns about the safety of Whiteman Airport, with some advocating for its closure due to issues related to air and noise pollution. In early 2022, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to investigate the potential closure of the airport following previous incidents, including a plane landing on train tracks and being struck by a Metrolink train, along with a fatal crash in November 2020.

Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez, who has long called for the airport’s closure, reiterated her concerns on Monday. “It’s time for the County to step up and make meaningful changes,” she stated. Rodriguez emphasized the need for accountability and prioritization of community safety in light of these ongoing risks.

Meanwhile, the Whiteman Airport Coalition released a statement expressing concern for the pilot’s well-being and urging patience as investigations unfold. The coalition stressed that Whiteman Airport operates under stringent federal safety standards, highlighting its role in public safety, including support for emergency response and training operations.

“We understand this raises concerns, and we are committed to keeping the community informed as more information becomes available,” the statement read.