Nathalia Gadelha Filgueiras Obituary: 20-Year-Old Co-Pilot Identified After Fatal Florida Learjet Crash

The aviation community is mourning Nathalia Gadelha Filgueiras, a 20-year-old pilot identified by her family as the co-pilot aboard the Learjet 60 that crashed in Palm Beach County, Florida, on November 1, 2026. Her mother and stepfather confirmed her involvement in the flight in media interviews, as reported on November 2.

The aircraft was travelling from Austin, Texas, to North Eleuthera in the Bahamas when it crashed in the Palm Beach County area. All nine people aboard died, according to federal officials. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation with support from the Federal Aviation Administration.

Nathalia Filgueiras Earned Her Pilot’s Licence at 17

Nathalia developed an interest in aviation at an early age. In 2023, CBS12 News featured her achievement of earning a private pilot’s licence at just 17, while she was a senior at West Boca Raton High School in Florida.

At the time of that report, she had accumulated 88 hours of flight experience and was already considering a future as a commercial airline or private jet pilot. Her early accomplishment reflected a clear commitment to aviation and a career she hoped to pursue.

Her family’s identification of her as the co-pilot has brought renewed attention to the young aviator whose ambitions had begun attracting recognition while she was still in high school.

NTSB Investigates Fatal Learjet 60 Crash in Florida

Reports indicate that the aircraft’s crew encountered icing conditions, turbulence and precipitation before the emergency descent. However, investigators have not established what caused the crash or whether weather conditions contributed to it. The final findings remain pending.

Although her family has identified Nathalia as one of the victims, authorities had not publicly released the complete list of occupants at the time of the reports.

Condolences to Nathalia’s Family

Heartfelt condolences go out to Nathalia’s mother, stepfather, relatives, friends and everyone affected by the tragedy. Her early achievements and aspirations in aviation will remain part of the story shared by those who knew her.

May her loved ones find strength and comfort during this difficult time. May Nathalia and all those who lost their lives rest in peace.