PHILADELPHIA — A tragic aviation incident occurred on Friday evening when a medical transport jet crashed into a Philadelphia neighborhood shortly after takeoff. The Learjet 55 was carrying a child who had just completed treatment for a life-threatening condition, her mother, and four other crew members at the time of the crash, resulting in a massive fireball that affected nearby homes.
The operator of the jet, Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, has stated that they are unable to confirm any survivors from the crash. Although there were no immediate reports of fatalities on the ground, at least six individuals have been treated for injuries at a local hospital.
All passengers on the flight were from Mexico, with the child being transported back home after undergoing medical treatment. The intended destination was Tijuana, following a layover in Missouri.
According to a spokesperson for Jet Rescue, the crew was highly trained and experienced, reinforcing their commitment to safety and rigorous maintenance of aircraft. This incident has left the community in shock, as expressed by local officials.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro addressed the media, anticipating a tragic outcome from what he termed an “awful aviation disaster.” He acknowledged the anticipated loss of life.
Temple University Hospital reported treating six individuals for injuries related to the crash, with three individuals discharged and the others in fair condition. Details regarding their exact injuries remain undisclosed.
The Learjet was registered in Mexico and operated by Jet Rescue, which conducts air ambulance services in both Mexico and the United States. This incident marks a significant tragedy for the company, as it is the second fatal event in a span of 15 months; a prior incident in 2023 resulted in the loss of five crew members in Mexico.
Eyewitness accounts detailed the horrifying moment of the crash. A doorbell camera captured the jet plummeting and exploding near a bustling shopping area. Residents reported a loud roar, followed by the sight of a massive plume of smoke.
The crash occurred less than three miles from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, a facility primarily serving business jets and charter operations. Shortly after departing the airport at 6:06 PM, the aircraft quickly lost radar contact.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will spearhead the investigation into the crash, with initial investigators already on site.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with air transport, particularly in medical emergencies, and has raised concerns within the community about aviation safety.
