A Learjet 55 medical transport aircraft crashed Friday evening shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, killing all six people on board.
The crash, which occurred near Roosevelt Mall around 6:30 p.m., resulted in a massive explosion, setting vehicles and nearby structures ablaze.
The aircraft, operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, was transporting a young girl and her mother back to Mexico after the child had received medical care in Philadelphia.
The flight was bound for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri, with plans to refuel before continuing to Mexico.
The six people on board included the young patient, her mother, the pilot, the co-pilot, the doctor, and a paramedic.
Eyewitness Accounts
Bystanders described the crash as catastrophic. One witness who spoke to local news said, “The sky lit up in flames. I saw the plane hit something before there was a huge explosion. It was horrifying.”
Another witness recounted seeing fire and debris scattered across the area, while others reported hearing a loud explosion followed by a shockwave that rattled buildings in the vicinity.
Emergency Response & Casualties
Philadelphia Fire Department and emergency responders arrived swiftly, combatting the flames and securing the crash site.
Several vehicles caught fire, and emergency personnel worked to prevent further damage.
Temple University Hospital received multiple injured individuals, including civilians affected by the explosion.
Hospital officials confirmed that three injured people were treated and released, while three others remained hospitalized in fair condition.
At least one firefighter was also treated for a breathing issue caused by smoke inhalation.
Statements from Officials
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker expressed condolences, urging residents to steer clear of the crash site.
“This is a tragic incident. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. I want to commend our first responders for their swift action in controlling the situation.”
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro acknowledged the severity of the incident and confirmed that federal agencies, including the FAA and the NTSB, have begun investigations.
“We are working closely with authorities to determine the cause of this tragedy. The safety of our skies is a top priority.”
Possible Cause of the Crash
While the exact cause remains unknown, weather conditions at the time of the crash may have played a role.
AccuWeather meteorologists reported that the area had light rain and fog, with low cloud coverage (400-600 feet above ground) and 10 mph southwest winds.
Connection to Washington, D.C. Mid-Air Collision
The Philadelphia crash comes just two days after a major mid-air collision in Washington, D.C., where an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter collided, killing all 67 people on board both aircraft.
Early investigations into the D.C. crash have pointed to air traffic control errors, confusion over flight paths, and staffing shortages as potential causes.
While no direct connection has been made between the two incidents, the back-to-back crashes have raised concerns about aviation safety and air traffic control oversight.
Current Situation & Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have secured the crash site and are conducting a thorough investigation into what went wrong.
The FAA and NTSB are leading the probe, analyzing flight data, air traffic communication, and weather conditions.
Meanwhile, grief and shock continue to spread through Philadelphia, as residents mourn the victims and await answers.
Officials have urged anyone who finds debris or remains from the crash to report it immediately.
