Casualties unknown

Near Midair Collision at Airport Involving Learjet 35 and Cessna 403 (N68368)

West Palm Bch, FL, US

On July 5, 1985, a Cessna 402 (registration N68368) operated by Gull Air was involved in an aviation accident near West Palm Bch, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A Learjet 35 and a Cessna 403 nearly collided after both were cleared for takeoff on intersecting runways. The aircraft missed each other by about 10 feet.

Incident Overview

An incident occurred at an airport when a Learjet 35 and a Cessna 403 came within approximately 10 feet of each other after both began their takeoff rolls. The sequence of events began when air traffic control tower personnel cleared the Learjet 35 to taxi into position and hold on Runway 09L. The Learjet crew acknowledged the instruction.

Sequence of Events

After the Learjet was holding on Runway 09L, tower personnel then cleared a Cessna 403 to taxi into position and hold on Runway 13. Subsequently, the tower cleared the Learjet for departure, and the crew acknowledged. However, both aircraft began their takeoff rolls simultaneously. The Learjet departed from Runway 09L and the Cessna from Runway 13, which are intersecting runways. As they became airborne, they missed each other by an estimated 10 feet.

Pilot Statement

Later, the pilot of the Cessna 403 stated that he believed the departure clearance was intended for him.

Conclusion

The source does not provide a probable cause for the incident. No injuries or damage were reported.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37192. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.