NTSB report reveals both engines failed before small jet crash on Texas highway in June.

A recent preliminary investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has revealed critical details surrounding a tragic incident involving a small business jet that crashed on a highway in Texas in June. The report outlines that both engines of the aircraft flamed out, a situation that forced the flight crew to abandon attempts to reach a nearby airport, ultimately leading to the fatal crash.

The flight, which had taken off from the popular resort destination of San José del Cabo, Mexico, was en route to Austin, Texas. Early in the flight, the crew noted an “unusual vibration” that they had not encountered in previous flights. Following discussions with personnel from the aircraft’s operating company, NetJets, they decided to continue towards their intended destination. However, as the jet neared the U.S.-Mexico border, a low fuel pressure alert triggered a series of emergency protocols.

The situation escalated when the flight crew declared an emergency to Houston air traffic controllers, reporting both a generator failure and several systems indicating low fuel levels. In response to their urgent plea for assistance, air traffic controllers cleared the jet for a diversion to Laredo International Airport. Unfortunately, while on final approach, the right engine failed, followed shortly by the failure of the left engine, leaving the pilots without power.

Video evidence captured during the incident showed multiple instances of flames erupting from the aircraft as it struggled to maintain altitude. In a desperate effort to avoid further catastrophe, the crew sought alternative landing options, asking air traffic control if there were any suitable fields nearby. The response indicated that the only option available was the main highway below.

Ultimately, the crew managed to maneuver the jet for an emergency landing on the highway, approximately a mile southeast of the airport. The harrowing touchdown resulted in significant damage, as the aircraft sheared off several light poles, collided with a vehicle, and came to a halt precariously balanced on an overpass.

Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes as bystanders rushed to assist, some using crude tools to break the cockpit glass in attempts to rescue those trapped inside. Local firefighters played a crucial role, with one entering the smoke-filled cabin to help extract a passenger who had not yet escaped.

Despite the serious nature of the crash, two pilots and three teenagers aboard survived and have since been released from the hospital. A dog that was also on board experienced smoke inhalation but is expected to recover.

Tragically, the incident resulted in the death of Joshua Baer, a prominent figure in the Texas technology and startup community. The jet sustained significant damage to its fuselage, wings, and tail, highlighting the severe implications of the engine failures and the need for further investigation into the events leading to this incident.

The NTSB’s ongoing inquiry will aim to provide additional insights into the causes of the dual engine failure and the circumstances surrounding this catastrophic event as the community and authorities work to address the impact of such aviation mishaps.