SALT LAKE CITY — Investigators from the federal aviation board have concluded that the tragic 2023 plane crash in Utah, which claimed the lives of a North Dakota lawmaker and his family, was likely caused by the pilot’s disorientation during a night takeoff without activating the runway lights. The deceased, North Dakota state Senator Doug Larsen, was piloting the aircraft when it went down near Moab, Utah, after a stop to refuel, leaving no survivors among Larsen, his wife, and their two young sons.
The National Transportation Safety Board released its findings, revealing that Larsen lost sight of the horizon and accidentally steered the craft into the rugged terrain. Surveillance footage indicated that the runway lights were not switched on, despite them being fully functional. In locations such as Canyonlands Airfield, pilots have the ability to illuminate runway lights by tapping their microphone multiple times, but it seems this step was missed.
An examination of the wreckage found no mechanical failures in the single-engine Piper plane, according to investigators. They noted Larsen was briefed on weather conditions prior to embarking on the journey and possessed nearly 45 hours of nighttime flying experience. The report highlighted that Larsen held a certification for instrument-based flight in low visibility, suggesting he may not have adequately monitored the instruments following takeoff.
The fatal departure occurred at 8:23 p.m. from the Utah airfield, under conditions where the moon had yet to fully rise over the horizon. The area is renowned for its dark skies, often a destination for stargazers. A local operator in southeast Utah mentioned to the investigators that due to limited visual cues, pilots from their company typically avoid nighttime takeoffs on that particular runway.
Danielle Hilzendeger, Larsen’s sister, mentioned her unfamiliarity with the final report published by the board. According to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of the Medical Examiner, an autopsy concluded that the victims died from blunt force injuries, and the Federal Aviation Administration’s toxicology report showed no presence of drugs or alcohol.
Reflecting on Larsen’s legacy, his colleagues in the Senate shared anecdotes about his humor and passion for aviation. Many legislators attended a funeral service for the family, placing flowers on Larsen’s desk as a tribute. His memory was honored alongside other late senators during a memorial service.
Larsen, a Republican elected to the North Dakota Senate in 2020, chaired an industry and business legislative panel. Along with his wife Amy, he owned a construction business and hotels in Bismarck. His military career spanned 29 years, during which he served in the North Dakota Army National Guard and earned commendations such as the Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Service Star, and Army Aviator Badge for piloting Black Hawk helicopters.
