Feb. 18, 2026, 5:03 a.m. MT
Scottsdale is facing two lawsuits following a fatal aircraft incident at Scottsdale Airport on Feb. 10, 2025.
Both lawsuits allege that a Learjet veered off the runway and collided with a parked Gulfstream G200 in a zone that should have been kept clear, citing violations of Federal Aviation Administration safety standards. Authorities reported that Joie Vitosky, 78, the pilot of the Learjet, was killed in the incident.
The co-pilot and one passenger sustained serious injuries, while several others suffered minor injuries, according to emergency response officials. The Scottsdale Fire Department and local medical services responded to the scene, providing aid and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals.
As of now, the investigations are ongoing, focusing on the circumstances surrounding the crash and the compliance of safety regulations. Lane closures at the airport were implemented during the response, but have since been lifted.