2 killed after U.S.-registered private jet crashes in Dominican Republic

A U.S.-registered private jet exploded after crashing while returning to an airport in the Dominican Republic, killing the two crew members on board, according to aviation officials and local media. Video from the scene showed the aircraft sliding across grass next to a runway before it burst into flames.

The crash happened on Sunday as the aircraft, identified by Dominican aviation officials as a GALX with U.S. registration number N318JF, was returning to La Romana International Airport in southeastern Dominican Republic.

The plane was bound for Austin, Texas, before it declared an emergency about 16 nautical miles southwest of La Romana and turned back toward the airport, according to local media.

Footage of the crash showed the white business jet moving along the ground near the runway, with dust trailing behind it as parts of the aircraft appeared to break apart. Moments later, the rear section erupted in flames, followed by a large explosion and a plume of thick black smoke.

The aircraft had a U.S. registration and was listed to an executive aviation company, according to Dominican officials. Only the pilot and co-pilot were on board, and no passengers were reported.

Local media reported that both crew members were killed. Their names have not been released.

The Dominican Civil Aviation Institute and the country’s Aviation Accident Investigation Commission said emergency protocols were activated and investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash.