A small plane crash near Portland, Oregon, has tragically claimed the lives of three individuals, including 79-year-old Jacqueline Whitford, a respected flight instructor from Arizona. The accident occurred on August 31 when the aircraft, piloted by 73-year-old Michael Busher, collided with power lines shortly after taking off from Troutdale Airport. The plane subsequently exploded upon impact with a row of townhomes, resulting in the deaths of Whitford, Busher, and a 75-year-old woman named Barbara MacDonald, who was inside her home during the crash. Whitford was known for her lifelong passion for aviation, having pursued flight lessons in 1990 and earning accolades such as the FAA's "Flight Instructor of the Year" award in 2003. Her family and friends remember her enthusiasm for flying and her dedication to the aviation community.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash, which may take up to a year and a half to determine its cause. Whitford's daughter expressed her profound grief over the loss, emphasizing her mother's love for flying. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks in aviation, even for seasoned pilots.