Allan Filgueiras, a pilot who taught his daughter to fly, addressed the media on Friday to remember his 20‑year‑old daughter, Nathalia Gadelha Filgueiras, who died when a Learjet crashed in Florida on Sunday.
Calm under pressure
In her final communications with air traffic control, Nathalia reported ice buildup and severe turbulence before declaring an emergency and noting an overspeed condition while descending 20,000 feet per minute. Her father said he has listened to those recordings repeatedly, finding “she’s tough” and proud of her composure.
Experience and qualifications
Despite her young age, Nathalia logged more than 1,300 flight hours and completed the training required for a commercial pilot’s license and Learjet certification. The aircraft’s captain, 55‑year‑old Jeff Gregory, was at the controls during the final minutes.
Family’s response
Attorney Stuart Grossman, representing the family, emphasized that Nathalia was “at the top of her class” and fully qualified for the co‑pilot seat. He noted there are no immediate plans for litigation, focusing instead on preserving her memory and reputation.
Investigation underway
The National Transportation Safety Board has begun its investigation. Early findings show the Learjet exceeded its design limits as it accelerated, with tail pieces discovered miles from the crash site. The exact cause remains undetermined.
Community reflections
Retired airline pilot John Cox, now CEO of Safety Operating Systems, praised Nathalia’s achievement in earning a co‑pilot position on a Lear 60, calling it “a great ride” and acknowledging her love for flying. Allan expressed that watching his daughter’s final moments was “like having the heart torn from my chest,” yet he finds comfort in her dedication and heroism.
The crash also claimed technology entrepreneur Adam Robinson, his wife Helen Sharp, their two young children, and the family’s nanny, Ana María Ramírez Cetina.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
