A Devastating Financial Loss is Rallying the Aviation Community Together 

A devastating accident has shaken the National STOL aviation community after a fully customized trailer worth over $155,000 in gear and equipment was destroyed in a crash. Fortunately, the driver narrowly escaped with only minor injuries, a miracle considering the speed and violence of the incident.

The driver, Cam, was driving east through Montana, leaving the Moses Lake Airshow en route to Hartford. A semi-truck passed him, causing the trailer to sway dangerously. Combined with sudden valley crosswinds, the trailer flipped four times in just three seconds. Cam managed to crawl out of the truck only to escape through the back window just moments before the trailer was consumed by flames.

“It was engulfed in fire within five seconds,” Cam recalled.

Cam, a photographer, lost all his gear in the crash. During the rollover, one of his cameras struck him in the eye, temporarily blinding him for a few days and leaving a severe bruise. The truck and trailer were insured, but unfortunately, the valuable contents inside were not, despite prior assumptions by the team.

The trailer was a meaningful project for Tom, co-founder of National STOL, who had spent 3–4 years customizing it from the ground up. The trailer was built to serve a functional purpose. They would haul tents, photography and videography equipment, and you name it was in there. Tom has led the community through 12 events this year alone. “The best part about it is bringing new people in and building their confidence, especially in emergency scenarios.”

Despite the loss, the STOL and aviation community have rallied around the team. Donations, messages, and offers to help are welcome, showing once again that this tight-knit group supports its own in times of need.

Fans can follow recovery efforts and updates via the National STOL podcast and social channels.

FMI: https://nationalstol.com