The National Transportation Safety Board has issued its report on the fatal airplane accident that occurred on December 7, 2023, which killed a YouTube influencer and her father. The report gives a detailed outline of the series of events that led to the accident, including irregularities that hint at potential mechanical issues that occurred during the flight. The accident highlights the importance of maintaining proper safety protocols, and how mechanical failures can have potentially fatal consequences.

Who Were These People?

The two victims of the accident were Jenny Blalock, also known as TNFlygirl on YouTube, as well as her father, James Blalock, Jr. Jenny was a fairly popular aviation influencer, with more than 16,000 subscribers on her Youtube channel. She regularly posted videos about learning to fly in her Beechcraft Bonanza, also known as a Debonair, including one notable video where she experienced a serious mechanical failure while up in the air.

What Happened During This Accident?

The flight originally departed from Knoxville Downtown Island Airport (DKX) in Knoxville, Tennessee, at 9:48 AM CST. The weather was clear, visibility was good, and wind speed was at a fairly reasonable nine knots. The plane was meant to travel to Saline County Regional Airport (SUZ) in Benton, Arkansas. However, around 10:19 AM, the plane began to move erratically, making a series of rapid ascents and descents, as well as seemingly suffering from issues with its radio. Ultimately, it made its final descent around 10:57 AM after losing contact with the Memphis Air Route Traffic Control Center. It ultimately crashed into a hillside, resulting in the death of both occupants.

What Caused The Accident?

Due to extensive damage to the plane during the crash, as well as a fire started after the airplane accident by the gas tanks igniting, it is difficult to determine any one specific cause of the crash. However, the erratic movements of the plane, combined with difficulties communicating with air traffic control, indicate the plane may have suffered from significant mechanical issues prior to the accident. It is also possible that there may have been some level of pilot error involved.

What Can You Do to Avoid an Airplane Accident?

It is not always possible to avoid an airplane accident like the one that occurred here. However, there are a few important steps you can take, including ensuring your plane is well-maintained, avoiding flying if you are tired or sick, and always checking the weather before going up in the air. If you or someone you love has been injured in an airplane accident, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling aviation accident cases, who can help you get compensation for the harm you suffered.

If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.