Nine people have died after a Learjet 60 private aircraft crashed near a residential mobile home community in Palm Beach County, Florida, following an emergency involving turbulence, icing and a rapid loss of altitude.
The aircraft crashed near Greenacres at approximately 12:50 p.m. local time on Sunday, November 1, 2026, while travelling from Austin, Texas, to North Eleuthera in the Bahamas.
United States Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that all nine people aboard the aircraft died in the accident.
Learjet Plunges Thousands of Feet Before Crash
Flight-tracking data showed that the aircraft was travelling at approximately 35,000 feet before its crew reported deteriorating flying conditions.
According to air traffic control recordings, the pilots reported moderate turbulence, ice accumulation and precipitation while requesting permission to climb to a higher altitude.
However, the situation deteriorated rapidly.
The crew subsequently declared an emergency as the aircraft began descending at an alarming rate.
During the final communications, a pilot reported that the aircraft was descending at approximately 10,000 feet per minute before the rate increased to around 20,000 feet per minute.
Flight-tracking data indicated that the aircraft lost approximately 27,000 feet in about one minute.
The pilot also reported an overspeed condition before the aircraft crashed.
Aircraft Crashes Near Florida Mobile Home Community
The Learjet struck the ground near Military Trail and 10th Avenue North in Palm Beach County.
Video footage captured the aircraft descending steeply before striking the ground and erupting into flames.
The impact created a large crater and scattered debris across the surrounding area.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis described the crash as a catastrophic incident, noting the severity of the impact.
Authorities reported no immediate fatalities or injuries among people on the ground.
About 600 Residents Affected by Crash
The accident forced emergency officials to arrange temporary accommodation for approximately 600 residents of a nearby mobile home community.
Local authorities established emergency shelter arrangements while investigators and rescue personnel secured the crash site.
A section of Military Trail was also closed to traffic as officials assessed the damage and continued recovery operations.
Some residents reported power outages and damage to surrounding properties.
NTSB Investigates Cause of Learjet Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation, supported by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Investigators are expected to examine flight-tracking information, air traffic control communications, aircraft wreckage and weather conditions.
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall were reported in parts of South Florida around the time of the accident.
However, authorities have not determined whether icing, turbulence or other weather-related factors caused the crash.
The identities of the nine victims had not been officially released in the initial reports.
The NTSB is expected to provide further information as its investigation progresses.
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