Pilot in Florida plane crash said "we're managing the ice" before declaring "Mayday"

Updated on: November 2, 2026 / 6:12 PM EST / CBS News

Pilot in Florida plane crash said "we're managing the ice" before declaring "Mayday"

TL;DR

  • Audio recordings indicate the pilot of a plane that crashed in Florida stated "we're managing the ice" shortly before declaring "Mayday."
  • The Learjet 60 crashed into a neighborhood in Palm Beach County, resulting in the deaths of all nine individuals on board.
  • The pilot reported weather and turbulence issues, including an overspeed condition and a rapid descent rate before the crash.
  • The NTSB is leading the investigation and noted that the aircraft might have been breaking up before impact.
  • Icing can severely affect an airplane's aerodynamic performance, potentially leading to loss of control.
  • Identities of the co-pilot, captain, and passengers have been released.
  • One person on the ground suffered a leg injury.