Florida – The father of Nathalia Gadelha Filgueiras, the 20‑year‑old co‑pilot who died with eight others when a Learjet went down, said Friday that he has listened to his daughter’s final radio transmissions many times. He described her calm, professional demeanor as a testament to her training and character.
Father’s reflections
Allan Filgueiras, a pilot who taught his daughter to fly, told reporters, “I did listen to that many times trying to find a clue. In my head. How’d that happen? And wow, she’s tough.” He added that he wished he could have been on board to help, holding back tears as he spoke in Spanish.
Final radio calls
During the flight, Nathalia reported ice buildup and severe turbulence, then declared an emergency, stating, “We are in an overspeed condition descending 20,000 feet per minute!” She continued to provide updates even as the aircraft accelerated beyond its design limits and began its fatal descent.
Experience and qualifications
Filgueiras’ daughter logged more than 1,300 flight hours and completed extensive training to earn her commercial pilot’s license and Learjet certification. Her attorney, Stuart Grossman, said she was at the top of her class and fully qualified, despite her young age. The plane’s captain, 55‑year‑old Jeff Gregory, is believed to have been at the controls in the final minutes.
Family’s response
The family wants to protect her reputation against online criticism questioning her experience. Grossman noted there are no immediate plans for a lawsuit.
Investigation status
The National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation is still in its early stages, and the exact cause of the crash remains unknown. Pieces of the tail were found miles from the crash site as the aircraft exceeded its structural limits.
Personal memories
Allan recalled first taking his daughter up in a plane at age 12 and later teaching her to fly. He said she once told him she couldn’t believe she was getting paid to do something she loved, adding, “It was her happiest moment, to fly.” Retired airline pilot John Cox, now CEO of Safety Operating Systems, praised her performance, noting she earned the co‑pilot seat on a Lear 60 through hard work and skill.
Victims
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, among others.
Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.
