On Friday afternoon, a twin-engine Bombardier Challenger 600 jet tragically crashed into a vehicle while attempting an emergency landing on Interstate 75 near Naples, Florida, resulting in at least two fatalities.
The details: The incident unfolded around 3:21 p.m. at mile marker 107. The plane was en route from Ohio to Fort Lauderdale when it encountered engine trouble and attempted to divert to Naples Airport.
What's happening: Both the southbound and northbound lanes of I-75 have been closed for investigation, with expected reopening no sooner than late Saturday afternoon.
- The charter jet, managed by Hop a Jet Worldwide Jet Charter, was carrying five passengers at the time of the crash.
- Three individuals survived the incident; however, the extent of their injuries, if any, remains unclear.
Impact on traffic: Motorists have been advised to seek alternative routes with heavy delays anticipated near the crash site. The Florida Highway Patrol has provided detour instructions to guide drivers away from the affected area.
In response: Emergency services, including fire trucks equipped with foam for aviation fuel fires, were on scene, and the Collier County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the deaths. An investigation by the FAA and the NTSB is ongoing.
More details: Audio from Air Traffic Control captured the pilot reporting the loss of both engines and the inability to reach the airport for an emergency landing according to NBC-2.