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.
Teterboro Learjet Crash Raises Questions about Crew Qualifications
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.
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