Search and rescue crews are searching rugged backcountry terrain in Boulder County for a private single-engine fixed-wing aircraft that may have crashed near Eldorado Springs, with the search resuming Monday morning after an overnight effort failed to locate the plane.

The Boulder County Communications Center received a call from the United States Air Force Rescue Coordination Center at 9:42 p.m. Sunday reporting a possible downed aircraft. An emergency beacon on the plane triggered near Eldorado Springs, which is also where the aircraft was last seen on radar. The plane originated from Vance Brand Airport in Longmont. The number of people onboard has not been confirmed, as a flight plan is not required for an aircraft of this size.

Overnight, first responders and search and rescue crews searched for multiple hours. A MedEvac helicopter assisted using night vision technology, but the plane was not located. Law enforcement also checked nearby airports, but the aircraft was not found at any of them.

The search resumed the morning of October 5, 2026, allowing crews to safely hike into the backcountry. Air support from the Civil Air Patrol is also anticipated for an aerial search.

Agencies assisting with the search include the Boulder County Sheriff's Office, Boulder Emergency Squad, Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks, Civil Air Patrol, Colorado Search and Rescue Association, MedEvac, and Rocky Mountain Rescue Group. The associated case number is 26-04781.