Williamstown, NJ – Fourteen Injured After Skydiving Plane Crashes Near Cross Keys Airport

Williamstown, NJ (July 3, 2025) – A routine skydiving flight ended in a terrifying crash on July 2 when a single-engine plane carrying fifteen people went down near Cross Keys Airport in Gloucester County. The incident occurred around 5:25 p.m. on the 1500 block of North Tuckahoe Rd in Williamstown.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the Cessna 208B, owned by Arne Aviation LLC and leased to Skydive Cross Keys, veered off the end of the runway during departure. The pilot, who had reported engine trouble moments earlier, lost control of the plane, which then crashed into a nearby tree line. Emergency responders arrived to find extensive wreckage and several passengers drenched in fuel, requiring decontamination before they could be transported to area hospitals.

Law enforcement reports show that fourteen people sustained injuries in the crash. Eight victims were admitted to Cooper University Hospital in Camden; three are in the trauma intensive care unit in critical but stable condition, while five others remain hospitalized in serious condition for injuries such as fractures, extremity trauma, and blunt force injuries. The remaining passengers suffered minor injuries, with one person declining medical treatment at the scene. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the cause of the crash and will examine weather conditions, aircraft maintenance records, and the pilot’s credentials to determine what went wrong during the attempted takeoff.

We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.

Aviation Accidents in New Jersey

Plane crashes are rare, but when they happen, they often result in serious injuries due to the nature of air travel. In New Jersey, private aircraft and small charter planes contribute to several incidents each year, with causes ranging from mechanical failure to pilot error. When investigating these accidents, agencies like the New Jersey Department of Transportation and the NTSB work to identify factors that may prevent future crashes. Passengers and their families need to understand their rights after these incidents. Below are some common causes of aviation accidents:

• Mechanical Failures: Aircraft rely on complex systems that must be maintained regularly. A single overlooked part can result in catastrophic failure. Inspections and timely maintenance help prevent these dangerous situations.
• Pilot Error: Pilots must be well-rested, alert, and properly trained for every flight. Mistakes in judgment or lapses in attention during takeoff or landing can lead to disaster. Even experienced pilots can be affected by stress or fatigue.
• Weather Conditions: Sudden changes in weather, such as strong winds, storms, or low visibility, are a significant factor in many plane crashes. Pilots must be able to assess and adapt to these challenges quickly.
• Runway Incursions: Obstructions on the runway, other aircraft, or poor surface conditions can cause planes to overshoot or skid off runways during takeoff or landing. Airports must maintain clear and safe runways to reduce this risk.
• Inadequate Training: When pilots or crew members are not properly trained on emergency procedures or aircraft systems, the chance of an accident increases. Regular training updates are essential for safe operations.

After an aviation accident, it’s critical to reach out to an experienced aviation accident attorney. A skilled lawyer will help you navigate the complex investigations that follow and protect your rights. Having a dedicated legal team ensures you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering. An attorney can handle negotiations with insurance companies and responsible parties so you can focus on healing with peace of mind.

At Metro Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty that follow a sudden crash or unexpected tragedy. Our attorneys have decades of experience advocating for victims and their families when they need it most. With a proven record of success in challenging cases, we stand ready to answer your questions and guide you through each step of the legal process. If you or a loved one was injured in a plane crash, don’t wait to get help—our car accident attorney team also handles aviation cases and is here to support you. Call Metro Law at 800-469-6476 for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you pursue the justice you deserve. You don’t have to face this alone.