NTSB Provides San Diego Plane Crash Investigation Update

Accident Overview

• ✈️ A Cessna Citation airplane, registration number 666 Delta Sierra, crashed near Montgomery Gibbs Executive Airport after impacting high-tension power lines during an instrument approach.
• 💥 The impact with power lines caused the airplane to descend and crash in a residential area, resulting in a post-impact fire that destroyed the aircraft and damaged nearby properties.
• 💔 The pilot and passengers on board were fatally injured; there were no ground fatalities or serious injuries.

Investigation Status and Support

• 🔍 The NTSB has deployed a team of investigators, including regional specialists, media relations, and family assistance personnel.
• 🤝 Support has been provided by the city of San Diego, San Diego Fire Department, San Diego Police Department, and the FBI evidence response team.
• 🛠️ Party members from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Textron Aviation, along with Williams International Engines, are assisting the investigation.

Key Findings and Challenges

• 📉 The pilot did not report any issues or declare an emergency to air traffic control.
• ⚠️ The automated surface observing system (ASOS) at Montgomery airport was inoperative due to an unrelated power surge.
• 💡 Notices to airmen (NOTAMs) indicated that the precision approach path indicator and runway lighting system for runway 28 right were out of service.
• ☁️ Weather conditions for the approach were provided by Miramar, which reported calm winds, 1/2 mile visibility, and a 200-foot ceiling.

Data and Future Steps

• 📊 ADSB data, flight track data, and air traffic control audio have been recovered.
• ❓ The NTSB is investigating whether the aircraft was equipped with a cockpit voice recorder, as maintenance records suggest one may have been installed previously.
• 📝 On-scene activities are expected to conclude within two to three days, with wreckage recovery to follow.
• 📚 Future investigation will focus on pilot qualifications, training, flight history, human factors, maintenance history, and environmental issues.
• 📄 A preliminary report will be issued within 30 days, followed by a final report within 12-24 months.