Bombardier Cleared of Learjet Crash Suit

By Ramsay Crooks

Published on July 22, 2005

The suit claimed that the company was liable in the October 1999 crash of a Learjet 35 that killed Payne Stewart and five other passengers. The claim alleged that the Learjet 35's outflow valve and adapter were defective and subsequently caused a 3-inch hole in the nose of the plane causing the plane to depressurize.

The aircraft, which was en route to Dallas, lost cabin pressure during take off and crashed four hours later in a South Dakota field. The National Transportation Board determined that the probable cause of the crash was passenger incapacitation due to lack of supplemental oxygen from cabin depressurization. The board, however, stated the reason for the cabin depressurization and oxygen loss was undetermined.

Bombardier spokesman, Leo Knaapen said they are pleased with the verdict from the standpoint of having an excellent reputation for designing very reliable and superior, quality aircraft. The company extended their condolences to the victim's family members.

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