Pilot Escapes Unharmed After Plane Crashes Into Trees at Oregon Airport

The single-occupant aircraft stalled during takeoff and became stuck about 50 feet up in the trees.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A single-occupant plane crashed into trees at the Wokonda Beach Airport in Waldport, Oregon on Wednesday, leaving the 80-year-old pilot stranded high in the air until he could be rescued. The pilot, Les Lacasse, was uninjured in the incident, which occurred after his Hummel Ultracruiser plane stalled while trying to gain altitude during takeoff.

Why it matters

Plane crashes, even minor ones, are always concerning incidents that raise questions about aviation safety and the ability of pilots to handle unexpected situations. This case is notable because the pilot managed to walk away unharmed, which is not always the outcome in such incidents.

The details

According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, the aircraft was "severely damaged" but the pilot, wearing a helmet, was able to stand on the wrecked fuselage as it hung from the trees about 50 feet off the ground. The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the cause of the stall and crash.

  • The crash occurred on Wednesday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Les Lacasse

The 80-year-old pilot of the Hummel Ultracruiser plane that crashed into trees at the Wokonda Beach Airport in Waldport, Oregon.

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to and reported on the plane crash incident.

National Transportation Safety Board

The federal agency investigating the cause of the plane crash.

Federal Aviation Administration

The federal agency also investigating the cause of the plane crash.

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What’s next

The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration will continue their investigations into the cause of the plane crash.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of pilot training and the ability to handle unexpected situations during flight. While the outcome was fortunate in this case, it serves as a reminder of the risks involved in aviation and the need for continued safety improvements.