Register

Teterboro Learjet Crash Raises Questions about Crew Qualifications

Photo of the accident aircraft. NTSB
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Learjet 35A crashed during a challenging circling approach to Teterboro Airport, with the First Officer flying despite being unrated for the duty and demonstrably unprepared for the demanding conditions.
  • Investigation revealed extensive deficiencies in both pilots' backgrounds, including histories of failed checkrides, undisclosed infractions on medical applications, and documented struggles with proficiency and professionalism.
  • The accident flight was marked by cockpit confusion, poor crew resource management, and a critical delay in initiating the circling maneuver in strong gusty winds, ultimately leading to a stall and loss of control.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Although it will still be many months before the NTSB is ready to determine a probable cause in the May 15, 2017 loss of control accident of a Learjet 35A during a circling approach to Teterboro Airport (TEB), the Board’s investigation docket opened last week revealed a number of concerns about the two pilots aboard the jet, both of who died in the accident. There were no passengers on board.

Rob Mark

Rob Mark is an award-winning journalist, business jet pilot, flight instructor, and blogger.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE