NTSB Details Possible Factors After Fatal Biz Jet Incident

Investigators are scrutinizing elevator trim and the aircraft's autopilot as possible factors.

Monday, March 27, 2023 at 10:54 AM ET

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NTSB investigating a possible trim issue aboard a business jet after the aircraft encountered severe turbulence, resulting in the death of a passenger. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

A business jet experienced an inflight upset resulting in a passenger fatality, following a series of technical issues and crew actions that are now under NTSB investigation.
The incident began with procedural errors, including a forgotten pitot probe cover causing an airspeed mismatch during the first takeoff attempt and a "RUDDER LIMITER FAULT" advisory message before the second takeoff.
During the climb, the aircraft encountered repeated autopilot engagement/disengagement with caution messages, along with multiple EICAS warnings related to autopilot and stabilizer trim failures.
The fatal upset occurred when the crew, following a checklist, moved the stabilizer trim switch to 'OFF,' causing the aircraft to pitch violently, leading to extreme G-forces and activation of the stall protection system.

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Problems with the autopilot and aircraft trim are being looked at as possible factors in an inflight upset that took the life of a passenger aboard a business jet earlier this month.

On March 3, a Bombardier Challenger 300 was flying from Dillant/Hopkins Airport (KEEN), Keene, New Hampshire, to Leesburg Executive Airport (KJYO) in Virginia. There were two pilots and three passengers on board. One of the passengers was a child.