Bishop, CA — November 11, 2025 — In the rugged expanse east of Bishop, where cell service drops and ridgelines swallow radio signals, an overdue aircraft set off a coordinated search effort late Monday night. Civil Air Patrol (CAP) volunteers and Inyo County responders worked through the night, combining air and ground assets to track a faint emergency beacon that ultimately guided them to the downed plane at first light.
Initial Report of Missing Aircraft
The Inyo County Sheriff’s Office received a report at approximately 9:22 p.m. on November 10 regarding an aircraft that had departed Bishop Airport and failed to return as expected. All communications with the aircraft had been lost, and its last known position was near Black Canyon Road, east of Bishop. Deputies responded to confirm the aircraft had not returned to the airport.
Civil Air Patrol Activated Overnight
Following established procedures, Civil Air Patrol was requested to assist after radar information, and an overdue aircraft notification were shared with federal partners. Within approximately 45 minutes of receiving the mission request, a CAP aircrew launched from Bakersfield Airport to begin an aerial search of the region.
Emergency Locator Signal Detected
During the overnight search, the CAP aircrew detected an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal about one mile east of the aircraft’s radar track. Since local responders did not have electronic direction-finding equipment, CAP deployed a specialized ground team with the tools and training needed to help pinpoint the signal.
Wreckage Located Shortly After Sunrise
Shortly after sunrise on November 11, a CAP aircraft located the downed plane near Black Canyon Road. The wreckage was identified approximately 1,000 feet from the ELT’s estimated location. Inyo County Search and Rescue was activated soon after, and a California Highway Patrol helicopter transported a medically trained search and rescue member to the site. Ground teams also made their way to the area.
Responders reached the aircraft mid-morning and confirmed that two individuals were deceased. One survivor, who sustained multiple injuries, was airlifted to Bishop Airport for immediate medical care.
Interagency Response
When hearing of the operation, Civil Air Patrol’s National Commander, Major General Regena M. Aye said, “I am so proud of the dedication of our radar forensics team, air crew, and ground team, who helped turn uncertainty into hope earlier this week. Their well-honed skills and good work not only found a missing aircraft; they helped save a life.” She went on to say, “I’m grateful to the Inyo County Sheriff’s Office for trusting Civil Air Patrol and calling on our skills. This mission is a testament to the power of teamwork and the impact of Civil Air Patrol’s service to our communities, states, and nation.”
“This mission underscores the vital role Civil Air Patrol plays in emergency response,” said Col. Craig Newton, California Wing Commander. “Our volunteers train for these moments and stand ready to support agencies across California.”
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash. Civil Air Patrol and the Inyo County Sheriff’s Office offer condolences to the families and friends affected by this tragedy.
About Civil Air Patrol
Civil Air Patrol, founded in 1941 and chartered by Congress, is the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Its volunteers support communities through search and rescue, disaster response, aviation education, and youth development. CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft dedicated to training and emergency services. Learn more here.
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