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Ice and storms cited as factors in fatal Florida Learjet crash
Federal investigators say ice and weather were “certainly a factor” in a Learjet 60 crash near Palm Beach, Florida, that killed all nine people on board. The jet plunged from 35,000 feet into a residential area in about a minute, raising questions about how quickly conditions overwhelmed the aircraft and crew.
The co-pilot reported “light, clear ice” that was manageable and moderate turbulence shortly before the jet entered a thunderstorm cell. It then began descending at more than 20,000 feet per minute, and the crew declared an emergency before their final transmission, “We’re out of time.” Experts cited in the article say ice can affect a plane’s lift, engines and instruments; the Learjet has several de-icing systems, but the pilots must activate them.
In short
- Ice and storm conditions were factors in the fatal Florida crash.
- The jet lost about 27,000 feet in roughly a minute.
- Investigators are examining the aircraft and crew’s response.
Explained simply
A Learjet 60 is a business jet designed to carry passengers on private or chartered flights. Ice can build up on its wings and other surfaces, changing how air flows over the aircraft; it can also affect engines and instruments. The aircraft has systems to remove or prevent ice, which the crew must operate.
Thunderstorms can bring strong turbulence and rapidly changing conditions, making it harder for pilots to control and assess an aircraft. The pilots communicate with air traffic controllers, who can provide information and help coordinate a response, while investigators examine flight data, recordings and weather records to understand what happened.
The US National Transportation Safety Board investigates civil aviation accidents, including crashes, to establish their causes and contributing factors. Its findings can inform safety guidance and changes to aircraft procedures or equipment.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “Ice was ‘certainly a factor’ in private jet crash that killed nine people in Florida, investigators say – after co-pilot told traffic control it was ‘manageable’”.