Father of Learjet copilot says he will find a way to live after Palm Beach County crash

Allan Filgueiras stood before reporters Friday morning to address the death of his daughter, Nathalia Filgueiras. She was the 20-year-old copilot on a Learjet 60 that crashed in Palm Beach County, Florida, on Sunday. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that all nine people aboard the aircraft were killed. The family’s attorney, Stuart Grossman, appeared alongside Filgueiras to share details about the young aviator’s background.

Grossman stated that the family is not filing lawsuits at this time. He conveyed condolences to the families and friends of the eight other victims. The legal representative described Nathalia as a student who topped her class and held full qualifications despite her youth. He noted that her passion for aviation began when her pilot father took her on flights as a passenger.

Figueiras recalled that Nathalia found joy in the air. He remembered her frequent surprise that her profession provided a paycheck. He quoted her asking if he could believe she was paid to do what she loved. He said she remained calm during the final moments of the flight, as evidenced by cockpit audio recordings he has listened to repeatedly.

The father described his daughter as a hero who fought until the end. He observed that many experienced military pilots struggle with such situations, yet she maintained composure. He noted a shift in their dynamic over time. He said he used to instruct her, but she eventually became his instructor. He recalled her telling him she was not as tough with him as he had been with her.

Figueiras spoke to reporters in Spanish about the challenge of moving forward. He said he must find a way to live. He explained that his wife and three other children rely on him. He said he is determined to keep going for their sake. He stated that Nathalia would not want to see her father fall apart.

The Learjet 60 crashed around 12:50 p.m. Sunday in a residential area of Palm Springs. The FAA reported the flight departed from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas. The plane was headed to North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas. First responders from the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Department and fire rescue arrived quickly. Officials reported the aircraft left a large crater and scattered debris across the neighborhood.

Video footage showed the jet nose-diving before it burst into flames. Black smoke rose from the impact site. The victims included a Texas family of four, a nanny, two companions, and the flight crew. Tech entrepreneur Adam Robinson was among the deceased, according to reports. His wife Helen, their two children, and the other passengers were also killed.

National Transportation Safety Board investigators are currently examining the factors that led to the crash. Officials have not yet determined the cause. Grossman emphasized that the family is waiting for the government's findings before making allegations. The investigation remains open as researchers continue their work in South Florida.