Small plane down near Big Bear City Airport; pilot airlifted in critical condition

A small plane went down near Big Bear City Airport late Thursday afternoon, critically injuring its sole occupant and drawing a large emergency response from the Big Bear Fire Department and other agencies.

The incident was reported at approximately 6:22 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in the area of Greenway Drive in Big Bear City^[1]. Battalion Chief 2807, who was first on scene, located the aircraft in a park and field at the east end of the airport, adjacent to the runway^[1]. The pilot — the only person on board — sustained what firefighters described as "critical, multisystem traumatic injuries," and firefighter-paramedics provided emergency medical treatment at the scene^[1].

Mercy Air 22 airlifted the patient to Loma Linda University Medical Center for further treatment^[1].

The response included seven units: Medic Engine 282, Medic Engine 283, Medic Ambulance 282, Medic Ambulance 281, Battalion Chief 2807, Medic Engine 96, and Engine 3586^[1]. The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department and airport personnel also responded, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been notified to investigate^[1].

The cause of the crash has not been released. "The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation by the appropriate authorities," the Big Bear Fire Authority stated, adding that no additional information was available^[1]. The pilot's identity has not been disclosed.

A follow-up should seek comment from the Big Bear City Airport and the NTSB once a lead investigator is assigned.