Most people think of aviation accidents as major commercial airline disasters. But the truth is that most aviation accidents in the United States involve small, private, and charter aircraft, and Illinois is no exception. In fact, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), nearly 90 percent of personal flying accidents involve single-engine, piston-powered airplanes.
If you or someone you love was hurt or killed in a small plane crash in 2026, you may have legal options for seeking justice. A Lombard, IL aviation accident attorney can help you figure out your next steps.
What Makes a Small Plane Accident Different from a Commercial Airline Crash in Illinois?
Commercial airline accidents are rare. They follow mostly federal law, which includes strict Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules for aircraft upkeep, crew training, and air traffic control. Small plane accidents are different. These include crashes with private planes, charter flights, crop dusters, and helicopters, and the legal process works differently for each.