NTSB: Corrosion Caused Dual Engine Failure in Fatal Naples Jet Crash

NTSB Identifies Corrosion as Cause of Fatal Naples Crash

The National Transportation Safety Board has released its final report on the Feb. 9, 2024, crash of a Hop-A-Jet Bombardier Challenger 604 near Naples, Florida. The investigation concluded that simultaneous dual-engine failure resulted from corrosion within the variable geometry systems of both engines. This corrosion prevented the VG vanes from closing properly during power reduction, leading to compressor stalls and complete loss of thrust while on final approach.

Incident Details and Survival Efforts

The aircraft, operating as a Part 135 charter from Columbus, Ohio, was approximately 1,000 feet from the runway threshold when both engines failed. Pilots reported the dual engine loss and attempted an off-airport landing on Interstate 75 but struck a sign before colliding with a wall and power lines. The aircraft flipped and burst into flames. Two pilots died in the cockpit, but the cabin attendant and two passengers survived by evacuating through an overwing exit after the main doors jammed.

Investigation Conclusions

While a hung start occurred on the engines 25 days prior, the NTSB found the operators handled that event correctly, and the investigation assigned no maintenance fault to Hop-A-Jet. The incident highlights the rarity of dual-engine failures in modern aviation and the critical recovery challenges presented when both engines fail on short final approach without alternative power sources.