What to Know: Florida Plane Crash Killed 9 as Investigators Examine Weather
Descent and Final Calls
FlightRadar24 data showed the plane descending from 41,000 feet to about 35,000 feet as it entered Florida, then crossing the state. It later fell roughly 27,000 feet in about a minute before reaching the ground near Palm Beach.
Air traffic control recordings captured a pilot describing an outside temperature of -47 degrees Celsius, or about -52 degrees Fahrenheit, along with icing, precipitation and moderate turbulence. The pilot later declared “mayday,” reported a descent of 10,000 feet per minute and then mentioned an overspeed condition before impact.
Weather Under Investigation
Widespread thunderstorms moved through South Florida that afternoon. Aviation weather data showed heavy rain, low visibility and turbulence in the area around the time of the crash.
Investigators Seek Answers
Chapman said the NTSB hoped to recover the cockpit voice recorder, though it was unclear whether the jet had one installed. Authorities have not said what caused the crash.
Key points
- Nine people aboard the private jet died in the crash near Palm Beach.
- The flight was bound for North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas.
- Investigators are examining weather, possible aircraft breakup and flight data.
- Authorities have not announced the cause of the crash.