PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — A Learjet 55 medevac flight tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport on Friday evening, resulting in the loss of all six individuals aboard, including a pediatric patient. The flight, operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, was en route to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri when it went down.
The crash occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. near Calvert Street and Saint Vincent Street, less than three miles from the airport. Eyewitnesses described the plane as it plummeted and exploded, engulfing multiple homes and sending debris scattering across the intersection.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there were four crew members and two passengers on board — the pediatric patient and their escort. Shai Gold, spokesperson for Jet Rescue, revealed the child had been treated for life-threatening conditions and was being transported back home to Mexico. This flight aimed to reach Tijuana but included a stopover.
Local officials and the FAA confirmed the incident's severity, with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro labeling it as "an awful aviation disaster." Shapiro, who visited the scene, expressed his concern and empathy, stating, "Our immediate concern is for the patient’s family, our personnel, their families and other victims who may have been hurt on the ground." He emphasized seeing the best of Philadelphia as neighbors rushed to help each other.
The weather during the time of the crash was reported as clear, initiating questions about the cause of the disaster. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken the lead on the investigation. Initial reports indicate the Learjet 55 was broadcasting its position, and the last information received showed it at approximately 1,600 feet before descending rapidly.
By Saturday, details about the victims were still scarce. State Representative Jared Solomon remarked on the community's resilience, saying, "Northeast Philadelphia is a community of neighbors who care about each other. During this time of tragedy, I am inspired to witness hundreds of our first responders sprinting toward danger to safeguard our neighborhood." Solomon extended prayers to the families affected and gratitude to the emergency responders.
Authorities are discouraging residents from approaching the crash site due to hazardous debris. Emergency services, including police and fire units, responded swiftly to the incident, controlling the scene and providing assistance.
The Learjet 55, known for its use as both business and air ambulance transport, has been operational for over 40 years, registered to Med Jets. A witness reported seeing the jet streaking across the sky before its sudden plunge, likening it to “a missile coming down.”
Gold stressed the safety and maintenance protocols Jet Rescue follows, stating, "When incidents like this happen, it’s shocking and surprising; all the aircraft are maintained rigorously because our mission is so important." He expressed hopes for the victims' families and the seriousness of the medical emergency they were dealing with.
Interestingly, the plane's crash came just two days after another devastating aviation incident, which saw multiple fatalities when American Airlines collided midair with an Army helicopter. The tragic timing has raised alarm within the aviation community, spotlighting safety concerns surrounding air medical transport flights.
The flight data shows the aircraft's last communication registered it descending at nearly 11,000 feet per minute just moments before impact. There are also reports indicating various homes and vehicles were affected by the crash site explosion, leading to calls for emergency alerts and neighborhood assistance.
Photos captured by residents shared online revealed flames leaping high as the plane collided with the ground, engulfing the vicinity in smoke and debris. One resident recalled hearing the loud noise, which shook their home and led to immediate panic.
The NTSB is still gathering information to determine the precise cause of the crash and will provide updates as the investigation progresses. Meanwhile, the local community shows solidarity and support for the families of those who lost their lives, reflecting the spirit of togetherness even after such calamity.
This incident is still developing, and officials urge anyone with potential debris to report it to 911. The community remains vigilant as they await more information about the victims and the subsequent investigation.