Caden Max West Obituary: 27-Year-Old Pocatello Pilot Dies in Blackfoot Airport Plane Crash

The Pocatello, Idaho, community is mourning the loss of Caden Max West, a 27-year-old aspiring commercial pilot who died on August 1, 2026, following a plane crash at Blackfoot Airport.

Caden is being remembered by his family and friends as an adventurous young man with a passion for aviation, a curious mind, and a deep appreciation for the people closest to him.

Born on January 16, 1999, he had been working toward his dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot. His sudden passing has left his family, friends, and loved ones grieving the loss of a young man whose ambitions and enthusiasm shaped much of his life.

Caden West’s Aviation Journey and Education

Caden developed a strong interest in aviation and was steadily pursuing a career in flying. At the time of his death, he had accumulated approximately 170 flight hours as he worked toward becoming a commercial airline pilot.

His passion for aviation was part of a broader journey filled with education, service, and adventure.

He earned the rank of Eagle Scout, an achievement that reflected his commitment to scouting. He also served a Spanish-speaking mission in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Caden later graduated from Brigham Young University–Idaho with a degree in finance. His interests extended beyond academics and flying, including business, motorcycles, and investing.

He also spent two years in Alaska working with a film crew covering the Iditarod. That experience further strengthened his interest in aviation and contributed to his pursuit of a future in the industry.

Caden West’s Fatal Plane Crash at Blackfoot Airport

Caden West died following a plane crash at Blackfoot Airport on August 1, 2026.

According to the supplied account, the crash occurred at approximately 11 p.m. near the northern end of the airport. Caden was aboard a single-engine aircraft with his brother, Myles, and a close friend.

Both passengers survived the accident but sustained serious injuries.

Authorities began investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

Further details about the official findings and the precise circumstances of the accident have not been provided in the supplied information.

Family Remembers Caden West

Caden’s family remembers him for his enthusiasm, warm smile, curiosity, and determination to pursue the things that mattered to him.

His father, Dr. Jason West, shared memories of their relationship and the conversations they enjoyed about aviation, business, motorcycles, and investing.

Caden also maintained a close relationship with his brothers. They stayed in regular contact and enjoyed sharing experiences, creating memories that his family will continue to cherish.

His relationships with family and friends were an important part of his life. His passing leaves a significant loss for the people who loved him and shared in his journey.

Personal Details of Caden Max West

Cause of Death

Caden Max West died following a plane crash involving a single-engine aircraft at Blackfoot Airport on August 1, 2026.

The crash reportedly occurred at approximately 11 p.m. near the northern end of the airport. His brother, Myles, and a close friend, who were also aboard the aircraft, survived with serious injuries.

The circumstances surrounding the accident were under investigation, with assistance from the FAA and NTSB. No further official findings have been included in the supplied account.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Specific details about Caden West’s funeral and memorial arrangements have not been provided in the information supplied.

Further details of the obituary, memorial, and funeral arrangements will be announced by the family when available.

Caden West’s Legacy

Caden West will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, commitment to aviation, educational achievements, and devotion to his family and friends.

From earning the rank of Eagle Scout to pursuing his dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot, he demonstrated a determination to explore his interests and make the most of his opportunities.

His experiences in Ohio, Idaho, and Alaska formed part of a life filled with learning, service, and adventure. Above all, his family will remember the conversations, shared experiences, and personal connections that made him special.

He is survived by his parents, Dr. Jason West and Maxine Hanks West, and his brothers, Carter, Myles, Dalton, and Merrick. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Dr. Henry West and Max S. Hanks.

His memory will remain with everyone who knew and loved him.

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