NTSB Releases Final Report on Fatal CL604 Crash

Investigators cite corrosion in 2024 dual engine failure.

Meg Godlewski

Friday, April 24, 2026 at 11:28 AM ET

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Edited By:

Zach Vasile

NTSB logo and image [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The NTSB determined that corrosion in the variable geometry (VG) systems of both GE CF34-3B engines was the probable cause of the Bombardier Challenger 604 crash, leading to obstructed airflow and a complete loss of engine power.
The corrosion, likely due to the aircraft's prolonged basing near seawater, was not identified during a "hung start" event one month prior to the accident due to inadequate troubleshooting guidance from the engine manufacturer.
The crash, which occurred on a busy Florida interstate during a final approach, resulted in the deaths of the pilot and copilot, while the cabin attendant and two passengers escaped with minor injuries.

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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has cited corrosion in both engines as the probable cause in the crash of a Bombardier Challenger 604 on a Florida freeway in 2024.

The pilot and copilot were killed in the fire following the crash. The cabin attendant and the two passengers on board escaped through the baggage compartment door with minor injuries. A motorist was also slightly injured when the aircraft came down on a heavily traveled interstate during rush hour.