At least one person is dead and several injured following a tragic collision between two jets on the runway at Scottsdale Airport, Arizona, Monday afternoon. The incident unfolded just before 3 p.m., when the Learjet 35A reportedly veered off the runway after landing, colliding with the Gulfstream 200, which was parked nearby.
Authorities, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), confirmed the circumstances surrounding the accident, indicating they are pausing all incoming flights to the airport as they investigate the situation. Visual footage from the scene revealed significant damage, with emergency responders working diligently to assist those involved.
Local news outlets, including Arizona's Family, reported one individual was pronounced dead at the scene, with another three taken to hospitals for treatment. A fifth person was still trapped inside one of the jets as emergency teams worked to extract them. Onlookers reported distressing scenes as fire crews and ambulances rushed to the area.
"At least one person is dead after two jets collided on the runway at Scottsdale Airport," stated Arizona’s Family. The FAA stated the crash occurred when the Learjet “veered off the runway after landing and crashed” at around 2:45 p.m. local time.
Scottsdale Fire Captain Dave Folio confirmed five people were involved and reiterated the significance of the response, stating the runway remained fully active with emergency personnel at the scene.
Initial inquiries show the Learjet is registered to Chromed, located in Hollywood, Wyoming, with Vince Neal identified as its principal agent. Flight tracking indicated the Learjet was arriving from Austin, Texas, at the time of the incident.
"Currently, the airport is closed. We are closely monitoring the situation, and we are in touch with airport, police, and federal agencies and will update the community as we have more information," said Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky following the crash. She went on to express condolences to the families affected during the tragedy.
Following this accident, many are drawing connections to recent aviation incidents across the country, raising concerns about safety protocols. For example, nearby D.C. saw 67 fatalities from another aircraft collision at Reagan National Airport involving US Army helicopters shortly before the Scottsdale incident.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes expressed her shock and sympathy, stating, "I’m devastated to hear about the tragic plane crash at Scottsdale Airport. My thoughts are with the victims of this terrible accident and their loved ones." This response reflects a community coming together during trying times as they confront this unexpected disaster.
Ongoing investigations will seek to illuminate the precise cause of the accident. The aforementioned runway closure will remain effective until the FAA concludes its review of the accident. City officials have urged calm and patience as they navigate through the recovering process and await comprehensive reports.
Local residents and those familiar with the airport express their distress over the incident, as aviation safety becomes increasingly discussed amid fears following multiple recent aviation accidents. This incident only emphasizes the need for renewed attention to operational safety and emergency preparedness.
Attention will likely amplify as updates become available. The Scottsdale community, now focused on healing, waits eagerly for any news surrounding the recovery of the injured and confirmation of the deceased's identity.
The community’s resilience will surely be tested as they look to handle the aftermath of such tragedy at their beloved Scottsdale Airport, with promises of investigation and support echoing through local channels. This unfortunate incidence serves as yet another reminder of the perils present even within routine air travel.