Newly released air traffic control audio has captured the final moments before a Learjet 60 crashed in Florida on November 1, killing all nine people aboard. The recording revealed that the crew had reported icing and moderate turbulence before seeking a smoother ride. Less than a minute later, the pilot declared a “Mayday” and reported that the aircraft was descending at 10,000 feet per minute. The descent rate then accelerated to 20,000 feet per minute as the crew declared an emergency. In the final moments, a crew member warned, “We’re going to crash into the ground,” as the descent rate reached 22,000 feet per minute. Video from a vehicle captured the aircraft hitting the ground and exploding in a residential area, leaving a large crater near the entrance to a mobile home park. Palm Beach County Commissioner said around 600 people were evacuated to two shelters.
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