'Mayday, Mayday!': Final cockpit audio emerges after Learjet crash kills 9 in Florida

A private Learjet 60 carrying nine people crashed in the West Palm Beach area of Florida on Sunday while flying from Austin, Texas, to the Bahamas. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that all nine people on board were killed.

Flames rise following an aircraft incident in Palm Beach County, Florida, US, in this still image obtained from video. (Eduin Cruz via REUTERS)The aircraft, registered as N722BD, plunged toward a residential neighborhood near a mobile home park before exploding on impact.

Audio from the air traffic control (ATC) exchange before the crash has emerged, revealing the crew's final moments. “722 Bravo Delta… we’re descending 8,000—Mayday, Mayday! We’re descending 10,000 feet per minute!" the pilot said.

The air traffic controller acknowledged the emergency and offered assistance. The pilot then reported that the aircraft was overspeeding and descending at 20,000 feet per minute. Alarms could be heard in the background as the crew struggled to regain control.

The controller told the pilots they could choose any altitude and reassured them, saying, "I'm here with you. Talk to me." "We're going to crash into the ground, 722 Bravo Delta," the pilot said. The crew later reported a descent rate of 22,000 feet per minute, with the aircraft banking at 60 degrees.

The audio then captured frantic voices and a growing sense of panic in the cockpit. "Look outside... Holy f--k, we're out of time!" someone shouted. The crash occurred near Military Trail and 10th Avenue North in Greenacres.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office closed roads in both directions and urged motorists to avoid the area. Firefighters and other emergency crews rushed to the scene. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the crash.

The crash site is a few miles from Palm Beach International Airport. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the nine victims. The cause of the crash also remains unknown. Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats.

With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student.

She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories.

Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics.

Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.Read More