The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the tragic crash of a Learjet 55 medevac aircraft that occurred shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport on 31 January 2025, at approximately 6:06 p.m. ET.
The crash site, a commercial and residential area, became the focus of intense investigation. NTSB officials began the complex process of determining the cause of sudden accident over the weekend.
The Learjet 55, operating as Medevac flight MTS056, impacted the ground less than a minute after departing from the airport.

The crash claimed the lives of all six persons on board, as well as a person in a vehicle at the time of impact. At least 19 others on the ground were reported to have been injured. The Learjet, which burst into flame on impact, caused significant damage to the surrounding area.
The NTSB immediately dispatched a team of investigators to the scene. They have now begun the crucial task of gathering evidence and reconstructing the events leading up to the crash.
Recovery of CVR and EGPWS
A key component of the investigation is the recovery and analysis of the aircraft’s data recorders. NTSB investigators have successfully recovered the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) from the wreckage. The CVR was found at a depth of eight feet at the initial impact site. It is expected to provide valuable insight into the pilots’ communications during the flight’s final moments.
This crucial piece of evidence could shed light on potential issues or challenges faced by the flight crew.

In addition to the CVR, investigators also recovered the Learjet 55’s enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS).
This system, designed to alert pilots to potential terrain conflicts, may also contain valuable flight data that could contribute to the investigation.
Both the CVR and the EGPWS have been transported to the NTSB Vehicle Recorders Laboratory in Washington, D.C., where experts will conduct a thorough analysis of the data contained within them. This analysis will be a critical step in understanding the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Engine Recovery
NTSB investigators have also recovered both engines from the wreckage. These engines will be examined to determine if any mechanical malfunctions or failures contributed to the accident.
The ongoing wreckage recovery operation is expected to be completed soon, after which all recovered pieces will be transported to a secure location in Delaware for further detailed examination.
This comprehensive inspection of the aircraft’s components will be crucial in identifying any potential mechanical issues.
Beyond the physical evidence, the NTSB is also gathering crucial contextual information. Investigators have obtained surveillance videos of the crash, providing a visual record of the aircraft’s final moments.
These videos, combined with numerous witness statements collected from individuals who observed the crash, will help investigators piece together a comprehensive timeline of events. These firsthand accounts and visual records offer valuable perspectives and contribute to a more complete understanding of the incident.

Summary
While the full investigation is expected to take between 12 and 24 months to complete, a preliminary report will be released within 30 days of the accident.
This initial report will provide a factual overview of the information gathered during the initial phase of the investigation. It will detail the basic facts of the crash but will not include any conclusions about the probable cause.
The final report, which will include a determination of the probable cause of the crash and any contributing factors, will be released after the investigation is complete.

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