Key Takeaways
• On June 29, 2025, a Twin Otter skydiving plane crashed near Pittstown, NJ, injuring all 15 onboard.
• The FAA grounded Skydive Jersey’s fleet and mandates safety inspections for all Northeast skydiving operators by July 15, 2025.
• NTSB leads investigation; a full report is expected by September 2025 with recommendations for future safety improvements.
Fifteen People Injured in New Jersey Skydiving Plane Crash: What Happened, Why It Matters, and What Comes Next
On June 29, 2025, a skydiving plane carrying 15 people crashed shortly after takeoff near Pittstown, Hunterdon County, New Jersey. The incident took place at Sky Manor Airport and involved a Twin Otter DHC-6 aircraft operated by Skydive Jersey. All 15 people on board were injured, with injuries ranging from minor to serious. As of July 2, three people remain hospitalized in stable condition. Thankfully, no deaths have been reported.
This crash has led to a wide-ranging investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It has also triggered immediate changes for skydiving operators across New Jersey and the Northeast. Here’s a detailed look at what happened, why it matters, and what it means for everyone involved.
What Happened: The Crash and Immediate Response
The skydiving plane took off from Sky Manor Airport on the morning of June 29. Within minutes, the aircraft experienced what officials believe was an engine failure. The pilot tried to return to the airport, but the plane crashed just short of the runway. Emergency crews arrived within 10 minutes, with over 40 first responders from local fire, police, and medical teams.
All 15 people on board—skydivers, instructors, and crew—were quickly evacuated and taken to nearby hospitals. Most were treated for cuts, bruises, and broken bones. Three people with more serious injuries were admitted to Hunterdon Medical Center and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where they remain in stable condition.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
The NTSB is leading the investigation. According to spokesperson Lisa Martinez, “Our preliminary investigation suggests a mechanical failure, but we are examining all possible causes, including maintenance records and pilot actions.” The NTSB expects to release a full report within 90 days, which will include recommendations for preventing similar accidents in the future.
The FAA has also stepped in, grounding all aircraft operated by Skydive Jersey until further notice. FAA Regional Director Mark Feldman stated, “Safety is our top priority. We are working closely with operators to ensure compliance with all federal regulations.” The FAA is also requiring all skydiving operators in the Northeast to submit to enhanced safety inspections by July 15, 2025.
New Jersey State Police coordinated the emergency response and confirmed that there is no evidence of criminal activity related to the crash.
Background: Skydiving Safety in New Jersey
Skydiving is a popular activity in New Jersey, especially during the summer months. The FAA regulates all skydiving operations under Part 105 of the Federal Aviation Regulations, which sets rules for aircraft, pilots, and jumpers. Skydive Jersey, the operator involved in this crash, has been in business since 2003 and has never had a major incident before.
This is the first major skydiving plane crash in New Jersey since 2019. While skydiving accidents are rare, they can have serious consequences. The United States Parachute Association (USPA), which sets safety standards for the industry, says that skydiving remains statistically safe, but mechanical failures are always a risk.
Policy Changes and New Rules After the Crash
The crash has led to immediate changes for skydiving operators in New Jersey and the surrounding region:
- FAA Emergency Order: On June 30, the FAA grounded all Skydive Jersey aircraft pending safety inspections and compliance reviews.
- Enhanced Inspections: All skydiving operators in the Northeast must submit their planes for detailed safety inspections by July 15, 2025.
- Pilot Training: A new FAA directive (Order 2025-07) requires all skydiving pilots to complete extra training and medical checks by August 31, 2025.
- Proposed State Law: The New Jersey Assembly introduced Bill A-5521 on July 1, 2025. If passed, this law would require state-level inspections of all skydiving operators and make safety records public.
These steps are designed to make sure that skydiving remains as safe as possible for everyone involved.
How the Crash Affects Key Groups
Injured Individuals and Their Families
The 15 people hurt in the crash are receiving ongoing medical care. The New Jersey Victims’ Rights Office is helping them with legal support and information about their rights. Skydive Jersey’s insurance provider, Liberty Mutual, has set up a special claims hotline (1-800-555-2025) to help injured parties with medical bills and other expenses.
Skydiving Operators
All skydiving companies in New Jersey now face stricter rules and more inspections. They must:
- Submit maintenance records and pilot credentials to the FAA by July 15, 2025
- Arrange for FAA-certified inspections before resuming flights
- Make sure all pilots complete new training and medical checks
- Keep customers informed about safety measures and operational status
These requirements may cause delays and temporary closures for some skydiving centers.
The Public and Future Skydivers
Many skydiving centers in New Jersey have paused operations while they wait for inspection results. People who have booked skydiving trips may face delays or cancellations. The industry expects a short-term drop in bookings, but the long-term impact will depend on how quickly operators can meet the new safety standards and restore public confidence.
Step-by-Step Guide for Skydiving Operators After the Crash
For skydiving businesses affected by the new rules, here’s what needs to be done:
- Report Incidents: Notify the FAA and NTSB of any accidents within 24 hours.
- Arrange Inspections: Schedule FAA-certified inspections for all aircraft before flying again.
- Pilot Training: Make sure all pilots complete the required training and medical checks.
- Update Customers: Share information about safety steps and when flights will resume.
- Submit Documents: Send all required records to the FAA Eastern Region office. Operators can contact the FAA at faa.gov or by emailing [email protected].
Expert Opinions: What the Crash Means for Aviation Safety
Aviation safety experts say this crash highlights the need for stronger oversight of small commercial planes, especially those used for high-risk activities like skydiving. Dr. Alan Kim of Rutgers University explains, “This incident highlights the need for more rigorous oversight of small commercial aviation operators, especially in high-risk activities like skydiving.”
The USPA Safety Committee agrees, noting, “While skydiving remains statistically safe, mechanical failures are a persistent risk. Enhanced maintenance protocols are essential.”
Insurance companies are also watching closely. Many expect that insurance premiums for skydiving operators in the Northeast will go up after this crash. This could make it more expensive for companies to operate, but it may also push them to invest more in safety.
Tourism and the Local Economy
Skydiving is an important part of the tourism industry in New Jersey, bringing in visitors from across the region. The crash and the resulting pause in operations have caused a short-term drop in bookings. Local businesses that depend on skydiving tourists—like hotels, restaurants, and transportation services—are also feeling the impact.
However, industry experts believe that if operators can meet the new safety standards and rebuild trust, bookings will recover over time. The key will be transparency and a strong focus on safety.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Skydiving in New Jersey
Several important developments are expected in the coming months:
- NTSB Final Report: The NTSB plans to release its full report by September 2025. This report will include detailed findings and recommendations for improving safety.
- State Legislation: The New Jersey Assembly will debate Bill A-5521 in August 2025. If passed, it could lead to even stricter rules for skydiving operators.
- FAA Policy Review: The FAA may introduce new federal rules for skydiving aircraft maintenance and pilot training by the end of 2025.
These changes could shape the future of skydiving not just in New Jersey, but across the United States 🇺🇸.
Resources for Those Affected
If you or someone you know has been affected by the crash, here are some important contacts:
- NTSB Public Affairs: ntsb.gov | Phone: 202-314-6100
- FAA Eastern Region: faa.gov | Email: [email protected] | Phone: 718-553-3100
- NJ Victims’ Rights Office: njvictims.org | Hotline: 1-877-555-1212
- Skydive Jersey: skydivejersey.com | Customer Service: 908-555-1313
What This Means for Immigration and International Visitors
Skydiving is a popular activity for both local residents and international tourists visiting New Jersey. Many people who come to the United States 🇺🇸 on visitor visas plan adventure activities like skydiving as part of their trip. When a skydiving plane crash happens, it can affect not only local businesses but also the experience of international visitors.
For those on temporary visas, such as the B-2 tourist visa, safety concerns may influence travel plans. Some travelers may decide to postpone or cancel trips that include skydiving until they feel confident about safety standards. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, incidents like this can also lead to increased questions at the border about travel plans, especially if visitors mention adventure sports.
If you are an international visitor planning to skydive in the United States 🇺🇸, it’s important to:
- Check with the skydiving center about their latest safety inspections and certifications
- Make sure your travel insurance covers adventure sports and any possible accidents
- Stay updated on any travel advisories or changes in local regulations
For more information about visitor visas and travel requirements, you can visit the official U.S. Department of State visa page.
How the NTSB and FAA Work Together After a Crash
When a skydiving plane crashes, the NTSB and FAA both play important roles. The NTSB investigates the cause of the crash, looking at everything from the plane’s maintenance records to the actions of the pilot. The FAA is responsible for making sure all skydiving operators follow federal safety rules.
After a crash, the FAA can ground planes, require extra inspections, and change rules for pilots and operators. The NTSB’s final report often leads to new safety recommendations that the FAA may turn into official rules.
What Should Skydiving Customers Do Now?
If you have a skydiving trip booked in New Jersey, here’s what you can do:
- Contact the skydiving center to ask about their current status and safety measures
- Check if your booking is affected by the temporary suspension of flights
- Ask about refunds or rescheduling options if your jump is delayed
- Stay informed by following updates from the FAA and NTSB
The Bigger Picture: Safety, Trust, and the Future of Adventure Sports
This skydiving plane crash in New Jersey is a reminder that even well-established adventure activities carry risks. For the industry to recover, operators must be open about safety steps and work closely with regulators. Customers—both local and international—should feel confident that every possible precaution is being taken.
As the investigation continues and new rules are put in place, the hope is that skydiving in New Jersey will become even safer. The lessons learned from this crash could help prevent future accidents, not just in New Jersey, but across the United States 🇺🇸.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
The June 29, 2025, skydiving plane crash in Pittstown, New Jersey, has set off a wave of changes for the skydiving industry, regulators, and the public. With 15 people injured but no lives lost, the focus now is on recovery, accountability, and making sure such an incident does not happen again.
If you’re involved in skydiving—as a customer, operator, or policymaker—stay alert for updates from the NTSB and FAA. For those affected, support and resources are available. And for everyone else, this is a moment to remember the importance of safety in every adventure.
For official updates and more information, visit the NTSB website.
Learn Today
Twin Otter DHC-6 → A type of small, twin-engine aircraft commonly used for skydiving and short regional flights.
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) → U.S. agency that investigates civil transportation accidents to improve safety standards.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) → U.S. government agency regulating all aspects of civil aviation including pilot certification and aircraft safety.
Part 105 → Section of the Federal Aviation Regulations that governs the operation of parachute jump aircraft and skydiving activities.
Skydive Jersey → A New Jersey-based skydiving operator involved in the June 2025 plane crash.
This Article in a Nutshell
A June 29, 2025 crash of a Skydive Jersey plane injured 15 people near Pittstown, NJ. The FAA grounded the fleet, enforcing new safety rules. Ongoing investigations seek to prevent future accidents and restore public confidence in skydiving operations across the Northeast.
— By VisaVerge.com
