Medical transport aircraft crashes in the US, at least 6 aboard killed

On Wednesday night, an American Airlines jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided in midair in Washington, DC

- Associated Press

PHILADELPHIA: A medical transport jet transporting a child who had just completed treatment for a life-threatening condition, her mother and four crew members crashed into a Philadelphia neighborhood shortly after takeoff on Friday evening, exploding in a fireball that engulfed several homes.

Jet Rescue Air Ambulance, which operated the Learjet 55, said in a statement: "We cannot confirm any survivors." There was no immediate word whether anyone on the ground was killed, but at least six people were treated for injuries at a hospital.

Everyone aboard the flight was from Mexico. The child was being transported home, according to Jet Rescue spokesperson Shai Gold. The flight's final destination was Tijuana after a stop in Missouri.

The patient and her mother were on board along with four crew members.

Gold said this was a seasoned crew and everyone involved in these flights goes through rigorous training.

"When an incident like this happens, it's shocking and surprising," Gold told The Associated Press. "All of the aircraft are maintained, not a penny is spared because we know our mission is so critical."