Investigation Continues After Private Learjet Crash in Florida

A private Learjet crashed in South Florida on Sunday, resulting in the tragic loss of all nine people onboard. Among the victims was 20-year-old Nathalia Gadelha Filgueiras, an accomplished pilot who earned her pilot’s license while in high school. Filgueiras was identified by her family as the co-pilot of the Learjet 60, which was traveling from Austin, Texas, to the Bahamas.

The crash produced a large fireball and left a crater in a residential road. Filgueiras’ mother, Camila, shared her sorrow, saying, “I wanted her to live her dream, but I knew that her dream was going to be the thing that would take her away from me.”

According to audio released by LiveATC.net, a female pilot reported moderate turbulence and ice buildup on the plane just before the crash. The aircraft’s descent became frantic, plunging at a rate of 20,000 feet per minute and reaching a 60-degree angle. In her final remarks, the pilot exclaimed, “We’re going to crash into the ground!”

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash. An NTSB official mentioned that freezing temperatures and reported turbulence could have contributed to the event. Evidence suggests a possible breakup of the aircraft before impact, which the investigators are examining.

Tom Chapman, an NTSB Member, indicated that while a cockpit voice recorder might have been installed on the jet, it could have been absent during the crash. Nonetheless, the investigative team is confident in their ability to glean significant information without it.

Filgueiras had logged 1,300 flight hours and recently communicated with her boyfriend, noting the turbulence and ice conditions. Her stepfather, Thiago Corteleti, confirmed these details.

Filgueiras’ mother stated that her daughter had been employed as a commercial pilot for nine months and worked for Upper Jets, a private aviation firm in Fort Lauderdale. Attempts to contact Upper Jets for comments were unsuccessful.

NASA administrator Jared Isaacman, reflecting on his aviation background, advised the public against forming conclusions prematurely. He emphasized that, despite Filgueiras’ youth, she possessed the necessary training and credentials, as verified by the FAA.