Nine people have been killed after a business jet crashed into a residential neighbourhood in South Florida, the United States.
All those on board the aircraft died in the crash, which US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy described as a “horrific tragedy” in a post on X on Sunday.
Duffy said Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) personnel were travelling to the crash site to assist the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) with its investigation.
Recordings of cockpit communications shortly before the crash, retained by LiveATC.net, reportedly captured the pilot discussing manageable ice-related issues before warning that the aircraft was rapidly losing altitude.
Moments later, a panicked crew member was heard saying, “We’re going to crash into the ground”.
The aircraft, identified as a Learjet 60, was a private business jet travelling from Austin, Texas, to the Bahamas. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport confirmed that the aircraft was privately operated but did not disclose the identities of those on board.
Videos circulating on social media appear to show the jet hitting the ground at high speed and at a steep angle, triggering a massive explosion.
Footage from the aftermath showed flames around the wreckage, scattered debris and damaged sections of pavement, while people gathered near the scene.
The aircraft reportedly crashed just metres from nearby homes and vehicles. However, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said there appeared to be no casualties on the ground.
Speaking at the scene, DeSantis described the incident as “cataclysmic”, saying the aircraft appeared to be “like a missile going down” before leaving a large crater beside the road.
