Dad of 20-year-old co-pilot in Florida jet crash says her final radio calls showed 'she's tough'
Key Points:
- Nathalia Gadelha Filgueiras, a 20-year-old co-pilot, died along with eight others when their Learjet crashed in Florida; her father, Allan Filgueiras, has repeatedly listened to her final radio transmissions and expressed pride in her composure during the emergency.
- Nathalia calmly reported ice buildup and severe turbulence before declaring an emergency as the plane descended rapidly, demonstrating professionalism despite the dire situation.
- The family and legal representatives emphasized Nathalia's qualifications and experience, with over 1,300 flight hours and certification for the Learjet, countering online criticism about her age and experience.
- The National Transportation Safety Board's investigation is ongoing, with early findings showing the plane exceeded design limits and parts of the tail found miles from the crash site; the captain was likely at the controls during the final moments.
- Among the victims were technology entrepreneur Adam Robinson, his family, and their nanny, highlighting the tragedy's broad impact beyond the flight crew.