Video above: NTSB gives an update on Friday, May 23, 2025 regarding a deadly plane crash in San Diego.
Following a tragic plane crash in Murphy Canyon on Thursday morning that left multiple people dead, officials with the City of San Diego have released responses to several frequently asked questions about Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport — the aircraft’s reported destination.
Around 3:45 a.m. on May 22, a Cessna Citation 550 jet crashed into a residential neighborhood near Salmon and Sculpin streets, impacting a home and several vehicles. A fireball erupted upon impact, waking residents and sending them into panic mode.
Emergency crews from San Diego Fire-Rescue and San Diego Police quickly responded to the scene. Miraculously, no one on the ground was killed, with only minor injuries reported. All six people onboard the plane, however, are presumed dead. Some of the victims have already been identified by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office, while others have been named by family and friends who are now mourning the loss of their loved ones.
The crash is now under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The ongoing probe is expected to last several days.
According to preliminary information, the aircraft was attempting to land at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport in low visibility due to thick fog. Investigators also noted that some advanced aviation equipment designed to aid landings was not functioning at the airport at the time of the crash. Among the disabled systems were the runway approach lights and the airport’s Automated Surface Observing System, which provides weather data to pilots.
In response to public concern, city officials provided information about the airport’s operations and safety measures on Saturday, just days after the deadly crash. Here’s what we know, based on their response:
How busy is Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport?
According to city data, Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport saw more than 386,000 takeoffs and landings in the past year. It is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the region.
Is the airport open 24/7?
Yes. The airport is open for flight operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, its air traffic control tower is only staffed from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. After hours, pilots operate under what’s called “uncontrolled airspace.”
How do planes land when there’s no control tower?
Across the U.S., only about 10% of public airports have control towers. Most pilots are trained to operate in uncontrolled airspace and use a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency to communicate with other aircraft in the area for awareness and so they can operate safely. Pilots are also required to check weather and runway conditions prior to flying.
Were the runway lights working at the time of the crash?
City officials said that the runway edge lights at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport were operational during the time of the crash. These lights help pilots safely land in low-visibility conditions.
However, the approach lighting system—owned and maintained by the FAA—was reportedly out of service. This was previously noted in a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM 10/008) issued by the FAA.
Was the weather reporting system working?
The airport’s Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS)—also maintained by the FAA—was reportedly not working at the time of the crash, according to the National Weather Service. City officials noted that it had not received any notification of an outage, and no NOTAM had been issued about the weather system.
How is pilot safety ensured at the airport?
Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport follows FAA regulations and performs regular inspections of the airfield to ensure safety. The airport also participates in the FAA’s Runway Safety Program, holding annual meetings with pilots and federal officials to review procedures and share updates.
In addition, the airport and the FAA have developed a “Know Before You Go” educational program. This includes a video and online resources to help pilots understand the airport’s layout and nearby airspace complexities — including its proximity to San Diego International Airport, MCAS Miramar and Gillespie Field.
What happens next?
The NTSB is continuing its investigation into the cause of the crash. The City of San Diego is cooperating fully with federal agencies and has pledged transparency as new information becomes available.
In a statement released shortly after the plane crash, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said the city will support the Navy as it assists the residents affected by this tragedy, which occurred in an area with military housing.
Removal of debris and plane parts is expected in the coming days.
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