Naples, Florida (February 16, 2024) – At the beginning of the Naples Airport Authority’s monthly board meeting on Feb. 15, Chair Rick Ruppert read the following statement on behalf of the commissioners and asked for a moment of silence:
The Naples Airport Authority (NAA) extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of Captain Edward Daniel Murphy of Oakland Park, Fla., and Second in Command Frederick Hofmann of Pompano Beach, Fla., who perished in the tragic accident on Friday, February 9, on I-75 near Naples, Fla. We also recognize Crew Member Sydney Ann Bosmans of Jupiter, Fla. Their collective, decisive actions likely saved the lives of the two passengers and many more on the ground. Our thoughts are with them and those affected during this difficult time.
We are grateful for the air traffic controllers and first responders who acted promptly when the pilots reported an emergency. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Collier EMS, City of Marco Island Fire Rescue, Greater Naples Fire Rescue District, Naples Airport’s Aircraft Rescue and Firefighters in partnership with the City of Naples Fire Department, and North Collier Fire Rescue District were the local agencies arriving almost immediately on the scene.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues its investigation of the accident, and the NAA stands ready to assist if needed. The NTSB typically issues a preliminary report in 30 days, but the final report can take much longer. All inquiries should be directed to the NTSB website at https://www.ntsb.gov/about/Pages/contact.aspx
This is believed to be the first accident by a jet aircraft using the Naples Airport resulting in fatalities in its 80-year history. We will continue to invest in industry-leading safety features for the benefit of our community.
About Naples Airport
Naples Airport is ideally located within minutes of downtown Naples, the Gulf of Mexico and I-75, connecting people to the Paradise Coast through an exceptional airport experience. The airport serviced 122,281 annual operations and more than 200,000 passengers last year, while being an engaged, responsive partner to the community. Home to corporate aviation, air charter, car rental, flight schools and critical public services such as fire/rescue, air ambulance services, mosquito control and the Collier County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit. The airport also prides itself on being the hub of emergency staging during natural disasters, like hurricanes.
All funds used for the airport’s operation, maintenance and improvements are generated from activities at the airport or federal and state grants from aviation-related user fees. The airport receives no local tax dollars. The Florida Department of Transportation values the airport’s annual economic impact on the community at more than $781 million.
For more information or to subscribe to email updates from the airport, visit http://www.FlyNaples.com.
