LEARJET 55 AND EXTRA 300, BOCA RATON, FLA., JUNE 23, 2000–“The failure of the pilots of both airplanes to maintain a visual lookout (while climbing and maneuvering) resulting in [an] in-flight collision and subsequent collision with residences and terrain” was the probable cause determined by the NTSB. The midair occurred in VFR weather, with a reported ceiling of 25,000 ft and 10 mi visibility. All four occupants aboard the two aircraft were killed in the accident.
The Learjet departed Boca Raton (BCT) under VFR at 1140 to reposition to Fort Pierce for touch-up painting. Onboard were three company employees: two seasoned pilots and one up-and-coming pilot along for the ride. A 30-year veteran aerobatic pilot was flying the Extra home after a morning of giving instruction in Pompano (PMP). The Extra pilot had retired a year before the accident to pursue his competitive aerobatic goals full time. Both aircraft were minutes away from their home airports.
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