Tragedy Strikes as Small Plane Crashes in Florida After Leaving Columbus
A small twin-engine jet crashed onto a busy Florida highway near Naples on Friday afternoon, leaving at least two people dead. The plane, a Bombardier Challenger 600, had departed from Ohio State University’s airport in Columbus earlier that day. Authorities have not yet identified the passengers onboard, and the cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
According to Robin King, the director of communication with the Naples Airport Authority, the aircraft was scheduled to make a stopover at the Naples Airport before heading to Fort Lauderdale. However, shortly after takeoff, the pilot radioed in distress, saying, “We’re not going to make the runway, we’ve lost both engines.” Tragically, the plane crashed onto southbound Interstate 75 at around 3:10 p.m., engulfing at least one vehicle in flames.
The exact identities of those on board the ill-fated flight remain unknown. The plane was not affiliated with Ohio State University, as confirmed by officials at the university. Hop-a-Jet charter company, which leased the aircraft, released a statement expressing their condolences and stating that they would send a team to the crash site.
This incident has raised concerns about the safety history of the Bombardier Challenger 600 series. The Dispatch reviewed records from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and discovered that this crash marks at least the seventh fatal accident involving this particular model since 2000. Bombardier Inc., the Montreal-based private business jet manufacturer, has not yet commented on the matter.
While the conditions of the three survivors are currently unclear, two ground vehicles were damaged during the crash. A 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and a 2023 Nissan Armada SUV were both involved in the collision. Fortunately, the driver of the Silverado sustained only minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the Nissan, along with her two passengers, escaped unharmed.
Eyewitnesses to the crash described a chaotic scene. Jinny Johnson, a Naples-area resident who stumbled upon the wreckage just moments after the impact, recounted her experience. “All of a sudden, I saw a lot of black smoke,” she said. “As I got closer, the smoke got a little lighter. And then I saw flames.” The flames consumed the plane while a damaged car sat in the median. Emergency vehicles had not yet arrived, but a helicopter landed nearby. Ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars soon arrived at the scene.
Naples Airport acted swiftly, dispatching firetrucks equipped with a special foam-type substance designed to control jet fuel fires. Their immediate concern was for the well-being of the passengers, crew members, and their families.
As the investigation into this tragic accident continues, authorities are working to identify the victims and determine the cause of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the NTSB are both involved in the probe. The families of those affected are undoubtedly grappling with shock and grief as they await more information about their loved ones.
This devastating incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with air travel and the importance of ongoing safety measures within the aviation industry. As we await further updates, our thoughts are with those who have lost their lives and their grieving families.
