GREENSBORO, N.C. — A jet built in Greensboro crashed during takeoff on the west coast killing five people, now federal authorities are investigating.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the Honda HA-420 jet crashed in Mesa, Arizona around 4:40 p.m. on Tuesday. Video shows the jet trying to take off, but never making it into the air. The FAA said the aircraft crashed into a car outside of airport property.
KPNX 12News in Phoenix, Arizona reports five Arizona residents died in the crash, one of which was a 12-year-old boy. Five people were on board the plane, four of which died. The driver of the car also died. The jet's fifth passenger survived and is being treated for burns.
The HA-420 HondaJet is an advanced light jet, built at headquarters in Greensboro.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released the following statement:
"NTSB is investigating the crash of a Honda Aircraft HA-420 in Mesa, Arizona on Nov. 5. Preliminary information indicates that the plane impacted the airport perimeter fence and a passenger vehicle during an aborted takeoff at the Falcon Field Airport.
NTSB investigators are on scene now with more expected to arrive tomorrow. While on site, the investigators will begin the process of documenting the scene and examining the aircraft. The aircraft will then be recovered to a secure facility for further evaluation."
Honda Aircraft Company released the following statement:
"Honda Aircraft Company is aware of the tragic accident involving a customer-operated aircraft at Falcon Field near Mesa, Arizona on November 5, 2024. We are deeply saddened by this event, and we extend our sympathies to all affected. At Honda Aircraft Company, safety is our highest priority. We are giving our fullest cooperation to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as a party to their ongoing investigation into the circumstances of this accident. Honda Aircraft Company offers its sincerest condolences to the individuals whose lives have been touched by this accident."
Honda Aircraft Company is located at PTI and employs hundreds of people.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash. As of current, we do not know if the crash was due to issues with the jet or pilot error.