Doyle G. Reynolds and Daniel Shure Involved in North Little Rock Municipal Airport Plane Incident; No Injuries Reported
On Thursday afternoon, April 10, 2025, emergency responders were dispatched to the North Little Rock Municipal Airport following reports of a plane crash. The incident occurred around 4:10 p.m., prompting a swift response from local fire and emergency personnel. Two individuals were aboard the aircraft at the time of the crash. Fortunately, both were safely accounted for at the scene, and no injuries were reported.
Details of the Incident
According to the North Little Rock Fire Department (NLRFD), the aircraft involved was a twin-engine Cessna 310. The plane crashed and caught fire upon landing, resulting in the tragic death of one occupant and injuries to the other. The surviving individual was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. citeturn0search1
The deceased was identified as 56-year-old Doyle G. Reynolds of Jefferson. Reynolds was serving as an examiner during a “check-ride” session with the pilot, Daniel Shure, 30, from Benton, Washington. The check-ride was part of Shure’s pursuit of an air transportation pilot’s license, the highest-level certification under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. citeturn0search1
Witnesses reported that the aircraft was flying at a low speed before making a sharp turn without the landing gear engaged. The plane then crashed, resulting in a plume of smoke rising from the site. citeturn0search1
Response and Investigation
Emergency crews responded promptly to the scene. Firefighters noted that the plane narrowly missed a diesel fuel tank at the Central Arkansas Water facility, which caught fire due to fuel splashing from the aircraft. However, there were no reports of additional injuries. citeturn0search3
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) initiated an investigation into the crash. Preliminary findings indicated that no pre-impact anomalies were identified in the airframe, engines, or propellers. The investigation is ongoing, with a final report expected to be released in the coming months. citeturn0search5
Background on North Little Rock Municipal Airport
The North Little Rock Municipal Airport, located approximately four miles north of the city’s business district, serves as a general aviation reliever airport. Opened in September 1960, the airport has two runways and covers an area of 621 acres. In 2015, it supported 197 based aircraft and conducted over 45,000 flight operations, primarily involving single-engine planes. citeturn0search4
Between 1982 and 2016, the airport experienced fourteen crashes involving private aircraft, resulting in one fatality. The May 2016 crash of a twin-engine Cessna 310 during takeoff was among the most notable incidents, leading to one death and one injury. citeturn0search4
Safety Measures and Community Impact
The recent incident has prompted discussions about aviation safety measures at the airport. Airport Director Clay Rogers acknowledged that while pilots are aware of the inherent risks in aviation, such incidents serve as important reminders of the need for continuous safety vigilance. citeturn0search1
The community has expressed support for the families affected by the incident. As investigations continue, authorities are committed to uncovering the causes of the crash to prevent future occurrences and ensure the safety of all airport users.
Conclusion
The plane crash at North Little Rock Municipal Airport on April 10, 2025, involving Doyle G. Reynolds and Daniel Shure, serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks associated with aviation. While the immediate outcome was fortunate, with no injuries reported, the incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols and continuous training for all aviation personnel. As investigations proceed, the community remains supportive, and the aviation industry continues to prioritize safety and risk mitigation.
