Hazardous Material Response Notification: Baylands Nature Preserve

Published on February 01, 2025

Hazardous Materials Incident Notification: Baylands Nature Preserve Marshland

9:55 p.m. Update: This evening at approximately 9:15 p.m., Palo Alto Fire Department (PAFD) cleared units from the scene following the successful recovery and removal of the intact Beehcraft Baron airplane that ran off the Palo Alto Airport runway as it was landing. There is no indication of missing fuel from the aircraft or impacts to the fuel tank. Initial reports noted a possible sheen in the water and containment booms were set as a precaution earlier today. Booms will remain until further environmental assessments are completed by PAFD Hazmat inspectors. 

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the FAA. The plane will remain on Palo Alto Airport grounds and containment set up around the plane in case of any leaks. The Palo Alto Airport has reopened. Baylands Nature Preserve will reopen tomorrow at 8 a.m.

Initial Notification Posted at 4:45 p.m.: This afternoon, a small aircraft ran off the runway at the Palo Alto Airport and drifted into the Baylands Nature Preserve marshland area adjacent to the airport. There are no injuries reported.

The initial call came in to 9-1-1 dispatch at 2:59 p.m. Palo Alto Fire Department Hazardous Materials crews are on scene addressing a fuel leak. Baylands Nature Preserve vehicle access closure is in effect. Please avoid the area.