A Learjet 60 business jet crashed in Palm Beach County, Florida, on Sunday, killing all nine people on board. The aircraft went down near a busy roadway in the Greenacres area at about 12:50 p.m. local time, triggering fires and scattering debris across the neighbourhood.
Authorities said the jet had departed from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas and was travelling to North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that everyone aboard died in the crash.
What Happened
The Florida business jet crash occurred near Military Trail, between Cresthaven Boulevard and 10th Avenue North. The aircraft struck the ground with major force, leaving a crater, fires and debris across a wide area.
Air-traffic-control recordings show the pilots reported icing, turbulence and precipitation shortly before the emergency. The crew then issued a mayday call as the jet lost altitude rapidly.
According to reports, the pilot said the aircraft was descending at more than 20,000 feet per minute and warned, “We’re going to crash into the ground.” The final transmission was reportedly, “We’re out of time.”
Residents Evacuated
Palm Beach County officials evacuated about 600 residents from a nearby mobile-home community. The evacuation was necessary because the crash site blocked the community’s entrance and investigators needed to secure the area.
Officials said there were no immediate reports of injuries or deaths among people on the ground. However, the impact caused extensive damage, and authorities warned that road closures could remain in place for some time.
Military Trail was closed in both directions between Cresthaven Boulevard and 10th Avenue North. Drivers were advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the Florida business jet crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is supporting the NTSB’s work at the scene.
Officials have not yet confirmed the cause of the crash or released the identities of those who died. Investigators are expected to examine flight data, weather conditions, air-traffic communications, wreckage and maintenance records.
Weather in the West Palm Beach area at the time included overcast skies, rain, lightning and gusty winds. Authorities have not said whether weather was a factor in the crash.
What We Know So Far
- The aircraft was a Learjet 60 business jet.
- Nine people were aboard, and all died.
- The flight was travelling from Austin, Texas, to the Bahamas.
- The crash happened near Greenacres in Palm Beach County.
- About 600 nearby residents were evacuated.
- The NTSB is leading the investigation.
The Florida business jet crash has left a community in shock, while investigators work to determine why the aircraft went down so suddenly. Further updates are expected as the NTSB continues its inquiry.
