Tom Chapman
ON THE RECORD · 5 verbatim quotes · every quote source-verified
“You all saw what the weather was like here at the surface. What we have to determine is what the weather conditions were like at altitude,”
Tom Chapman · said 2026-11-02 · reported 2026-11-02
At a Monday briefing on the Palm Beach county Learjet crash, Chapman said weather conditions would be a major focus of the investigation.
“We are in an overspeed condition, descending,’ with the rest unintelligible. Sadly, all aboard were lost.”
Tom Chapman · said 2026-11-02 · reported 2026-11-02
Chapman relayed a transmission from the airplane before it crashed and confirmed all aboard were lost.
“The crew transmitted to ATC that they were encountering light, clear ice, which was manageable, and also moderate turbulence,”
Tom Chapman · said 2026-11-02 · reported 2026-11-02
Chapman described air traffic control audio from the final moments of the flight at the Monday briefing.
“We do have some indication that the aircraft was breaking up before impact, and so some of this is yet to be determined,”
Tom Chapman · said 2026-11-02 · reported 2026-11-02
Chapman said recovering debris from the high-velocity crash site would be a real challenge and no immediate cause was likely.
“I want to express our profound, profound condolences to the family and friends of those who were lost in this tragedy. We are truly, truly sorry for your loss,”
Tom Chapman · said 2026-11-02 · reported 2026-11-02
Chapman offered condolences at a Monday press briefing after the crash that killed two crew members and seven passengers.