The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has successfully retrieved the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS) from the Jet Rescue Air Ambulance Learjet 55, which crashed in Philadelphia on January 31. The EGPWS might contain crucial flight data.
In a statement shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, the NTSB reported that the CVR was found at a depth of eight feet at the crash site. Additionally, investigators discovered the EGPWS device, which may provide valuable flight information.
“Investigators have recovered both engines. Wreckage recovery continues tomorrow, and all of the wreckage will be sent to a secure location in Delaware for further examination,” stated an NTSB spokesperson.
The NTSB is also gathering surveillance footage and witness statements about the incident and has requested any residents with videos or photos to share them with investigators.
During a media briefing on February 1, Jennifer Homendy, Chair of the NTSB, emphasized that analyzing ‘black boxes’ is critical for understanding cockpit activities during such incidents. She remarked that even without immediate access to these devices, investigations can proceed effectively: “It does not mean that we cannot continue our investigation and complete it. We can; it is just a piece of our investigation that gives us more information.”
The ill-fated Learjet 55 was transporting a pediatric patient along with five others when it crashed shortly after taking off from Northeast Philadelphia Airport. Audio from air traffic control revealed that although initial communication occurred between ATC and the pilot heading towards Springfield-Branson National Airport, subsequent communications went unanswered by the crew.
Data from Flightradar24 indicated that before crashing, the aircraft reached an altitude of 1,650 feet but then rapidly descended. As per Cherelle Parker, Mayor of Philadelphia’s statement, six individuals onboard and one person on the ground lost their lives due to this accident while nineteen others received treatment at local hospitals.
At another media briefing held on February 1st by Ralph Hicks—Senior Air Safety Investigator—the flight’s trajectory showed slight turns before its steep descent within less than one minute duration overall. Homendy mentioned how fragmented debris impacted surrounding areas spanning four or five blocks wide causing significant community disruption: “I do want to stress that this is an active investigation scene…It is very dangerous.”
Despite handling two major accidents concurrently—including another involving PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 colliding near Washington Ronald Reagan National Airport—the NTSB maintains confidence given its expertise as noted by Chairperson Homendy who said they are “a very highly skilled agency.”
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