What happened
On October 25, 1999, a Learjet Model 35, registration N47BA, was traveling from Orlando, Florida, toward Dallas, Texas. The flight, operated by Sunjet Aviation, Inc., lost communication with air traffic control north of Gainesville, Florida, shortly after being cleared to flight level 390.
As the aircraft traveled northwest, it was intercepted by several U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard fighter jets. During the interception, military pilots noted that the forward windshields of the aircraft appeared to be obscured by condensation or frost, though they were unable to see into the passenger cabin. No structural damage or other irregularities were visible from the intercepting aircraft.
Following the interception, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled spiral. The plane eventually impacted an open field near Aberdeen, South Dakota. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and six fatalities, including the pilot, the first officer, and four passengers.
Findings
Military personnel involved in the interception reported that the forward windshields appeared frosted or covered in condensation, which prevented a clear view of the cabin interior.