NTSB Confirms Small Plane Struck Power Lines Before Fatal San Diego Crash

The National Transportation Safety Board has confirmed that a small airplane tragically plunged into a residential area in San Diego, hitting power lines just before its landing approach. This incident, which occurred early Thursday morning, resulted in the destruction of more than a dozen homes and vehicles in the vicinity.

The aircraft involved in this disaster was identified as a Cessna 550 Citation business jet. The crash, which took place around 3:45 a.m., claimed the lives of all six individuals on board, according to Dan Baker, the investigator overseeing the case for the NTSB.

Although authorities have yet to release the names of the deceased, sources confirm that prominent music executive Dave Shapiro and drummer Daniel Williams were among the victims.

Flight Path and Pre-Crash Events

The ill-fated flight took off from Teterboro, New Jersey, made a stop in Wichita, Kansas, and was nearing Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport when the tragedy unfolded.

As the plane approached the airport’s runway, it struck high-tension power lines. Crucially, Baker noted that the pilot did not communicate any difficulties to air traffic controllers nor did he declare an emergency at any point during the flight.

Technical Failures in Weather Reporting

NTSB investigators revealed that at the time of the accident, the automated surface observing system, which supplies pilots with crucial weather updates, was inoperative due to an unrelated power surge. Before the plane began its landing approach, air traffic control had conveyed weather conditions from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, located approximately four miles north of Montgomery Airport. The weather briefing indicated calm winds, a visibility of half a mile, and a low ceiling at 200 feet.

Investigating the Conditions and Factors Involved

Further findings from the NTSB indicated that notices to air missions, known as NOTAMs, were active during the time of the accident. These alerts indicated the airport’s runway precision approach path indicator and approach light system would not be operational.

While the plane lacked a flight data recorder, the possibility exists that a cockpit voice recorder was installed, which may provide critical insights into events leading up to the crash.

In a related development, Baker confirmed that wreckage recovery efforts would proceed Friday afternoon, allowing them to wrap up the on-site investigation phase.

Continuing the Investigation

Baker emphasized the importance of thoroughly examining various aspects surrounding the incident. This includes pilot qualifications, training, flight history, and other human factors that may have contributed to the accident. The investigation will also extend to assessing the airplane’s maintenance record and overall flight performance.

The NTSB is collaborating with the Federal Aviation Administration, Textron Aviation, and Williams International Engines, all of whom are providing support and resources for the investigation. Additionally, NTSB specialists in air traffic control and weather analysis are being consulted remotely to gain a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances.

Impact on the Local Community

On the ground, reports indicate that only eight injuries were documented due to the rapid response of military families assisting one another to evacuate the area. The swift actions of nearby residents allowed individuals to escape their homes, including instances of jumping out of windows to avoid the flames.

As a result of the accident, approximately 100 residents have been displaced. Both Liberty Military Housing and the Red Cross are stepping in to aid those affected, offering temporary accommodations to ensure their safety and well-being.

A Look Ahead

This devastating incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with aviation and the need for rigorous safety measures. The investigation’s findings will likely contribute valuable knowledge to prevent future tragedies.

The NTSB will continue to gather data and conduct interviews as part of the comprehensive investigation into the cause of the crash. The agency aims to foster a safer environment for all air travel by learning from these incidents.

As the investigation unfolds, more details will emerge, shedding light on this tragic event that has profoundly impacted not just the victims’ families but the entire San Diego community.