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On January 31, 2025, a Learjet 55 medical transport aircraft tragically crashed shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, resulting in the deaths of all six people on board. The victims included four crew members, a pediatric patient, and her mother, who was accompanying her on the flight. The aircraft, bound for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri, was carrying a child patient in need of urgent medical transport.
The crash occurred near the Roosevelt Mall at Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard, a densely populated area in Northeast Philadelphia. Eyewitnesses reported a massive fireball and thick plumes of smoke immediately after the explosion. The impact ignited fires that engulfed several nearby homes and vehicles, leaving six individuals on the ground injured, with three requiring hospitalization.
Dashcam and doorbell camera footage from the area captured the horrifying moment of the crash, showing the plane plummeting before bursting into flames upon impact. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings reveal that the aircraft disappeared from radar approximately 30 seconds after takeoff, shortly after reaching an altitude of 1,650 feet. Weather conditions at the time were reported to include light rain, overcast skies, and gusty winds of up to 30 mph.
This devastating crash comes just days after another fatal aviation accident. On January 29, 2025, a mid-air collision between a Bombardier CRJ700 airliner and a U.S. Army Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C., claimed the lives of all 67 people aboard both aircraft.
In response to the crash in Philadelphia, President Donald Trump expressed condolences, describing the incident as a tragic loss of "innocent souls." He also commended the efforts of first responders. Governor of Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, worked closely with local authorities to provide support and resources in the wake of the crash.
As the NTSB continues its investigation, more details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks. The community and families affected by this horrific event are left grappling with the emotional aftermath of such a tragic loss.
Sources