What happened
On February 9, 2024, a Bombardier Inc CL-600-2B16, registered N823KD, was conducting an on-demand passenger flight operated by Ace Aviation Services (doing business as Hop-A-Jet). The aircraft was traveling from Columbus, Ohio, to Naples, Florida, when it encountered critical mechanical issues during the approach phase of flight.
While maneuvering on a downwind leg for runway 23 at Naples Municipal Airport, the aircraft's flight data recorder captured a series of Master Warnings. At 15:09:33, the system alerted the crew to low oil pressure in the left engine, followed immediately by a similar warning for the right engine. Shortly thereafter, a general engine warning was triggered. The flight crew notified air traffic control that they had lost both engines and were attempting an emergency landing.
As the aircraft descended, the crew communicated that they would be unable to reach the runway. At approximately 15:10:47, the aircraft's flight track ended over Interstate 75. Video evidence showed the plane descending in a shallow turn and striking the highway. The left main landing gear initially contacted the center lanes of the interstate, followed by the right gear in the right lane. The aircraft then moved into the shoulder and struck a concrete sound barrier, resulting in a significant fire. The accident resulted in two fatalities among the pilots, while the cabin attendant and two passengers sustained minor injuries. The crew and passengers managed to escape through the tail's baggage compartment door as fire blocked the primary exits.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a simultaneous loss of oil pressure in both engines.
- The flight ended with an impact on a highway sound barrier following an emergency descent.