Overview of the Incident
On February 11, 2025, at approximately 14:40 local time, a significant accident occurred at Scottsdale Airport, Arizona, involving a Learjet 35A and a parked Gulfstream G200. The Learjet, registered as N81VN and owned by Vince Neil of the heavy metal band Mötley Crüe, was arriving from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas. Upon touchdown on runway 21, the aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure of its left main landing gear, causing it to veer unexpectedly to the left and off the paved runway.
The out-of-control Learjet subsequently collided with a Gulfstream G200, registered as N199DF, that was stationed near the Southwest Jet Center. This collision resulted in significant damage to both aircraft and unfortunately led to the death of the Learjet’s captain and injuries to four other individuals.
Response and Investigation
Emergency response teams at Scottsdale Airport acted promptly following the accident. Scottsdale Fire Public Information Officer Captain Dave Folio provided details at a press conference, confirming the extent of casualties. He reported one fatality and several injuries, varying in severity, among the occupants of the Learjet. The Gulfstream had one person aboard who was unharmed. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has dispatched investigators to the scene to determine the underlying causes of the gear failure and subsequent accident.
Impact on Airport Operations and Recent Aviation Incidents
The accident prompted the immediate closure of the runway at Scottsdale Airport, a key hub for business aviation in the region. This closure is anticipated to last for an extended period while the NTSB conducts its thorough investigation. This incident adds to a troubling series of aviation accidents in the U.S. over the past few weeks, raising concerns about aviation safety standards.
These incidents include a collision between a PSA Airlines CRJ200 and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington-Reagan National Airport, a medical evacuation Learjet crash in Philadelphia, and the disappearance of a Cessna 208 Caravan over the Bering Sea, each resulting in multiple fatalities.
Mötley Crüe’s Response and Future Actions
The members of Mötley Crüe, including Vince Neil, have expressed their deep sorrow over the incident. The band released a statement highlighting their devastation and extending their thoughts and prayers to all affected. They also announced their plan to support the family of the deceased pilot, indicating an upcoming fundraiser or support initiative.