Eric Forsythe Killed in Cessna Citation Crash Near Mesquite Metro Airport; Investigation Underway as NTSB and FAA Seek Answers

Mesquite, TX – On the morning of March 13, 2025, Eric Forsythe, a highly experienced pilot, tragically lost his life in a devastating crash involving a Cessna 525A Citation CJ2+ jet shortly after takeoff from Mesquite Metro Airport. Forsythe, the sole occupant of the aircraft, was attempting to depart from Runway 18 at approximately 7:33 a.m. local time when disaster struck.

The aircraft had just made a right turn and climbed to an altitude of approximately 950 feet when it entered a rapid and fatal descent. The final recorded data from the flight’s black box revealed that, at the time of impact, the jet was traveling at a ground speed of 196 knots and descending at a rate of 2,750 feet per minute. Despite these severe conditions, the crash site was located in a wooded area near East Cartwright Road and Lawson Road, about one mile from the airport. Emergency responders were quick to the scene, and despite the severity of the crash, they were able to extinguish small fires caused by the impact. Remarkably, no buildings were damaged, and no other individuals were injured in the accident.

The Pilot: Eric Forsythe’s Career and Legacy

Eric Forsythe, 52, had over three decades of experience in aviation. A seasoned pilot, Forsythe was known for his calm demeanor and meticulous attention to detail when it came to flight safety. He had piloted a range of aircraft throughout his career, from smaller private planes to large commercial jets, and he had built a respected reputation within the aviation community. Forsythe was widely regarded as a professional who valued both safety and precision, and he was often sought after for his expertise in flight operations.

Forsythe had been a fixture in the Mesquite aviation scene for many years, having worked at Mesquite Metro Airport as a private pilot. His passion for flying was not just a career but a lifelong love, something that he shared with his colleagues and friends who remembered him for his warm personality and his commitment to ensuring the safety of every flight he operated. Forsythe’s passing has left a significant impact on the aviation community, and tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and family who mourn the loss of a man who dedicated his life to the skies.

The Cessna Citation CJ2+: A High-Performance Light Jet

The aircraft involved in the crash, a Cessna 525A Citation CJ2+, is a light business jet that has become popular for its performance, efficiency, and relatively low operating costs compared to larger commercial jets. Designed and manufactured by Cessna Aircraft Company, the Citation CJ2+ is known for its ability to carry up to 9 passengers comfortably while providing high speeds and a long range, making it ideal for both corporate and personal travel.

The Cessna 525A Citation CJ2+ is a variant of the Citation Jet family, and it is equipped with sophisticated avionics and flight control systems designed to enhance safety and performance. Given the aircraft’s reputation for reliability and its widespread use in the aviation industry, the crash of this particular aircraft has raised a number of questions for both investigators and aviation professionals. Was there a mechanical failure? Or was there some other factor that contributed to the accident?

A thorough investigation into the condition of the aircraft’s engines, avionics, flight control systems, and structural integrity is now underway. In particular, investigators will focus on whether any malfunction or failure in the plane’s critical systems contributed to Forsythe’s inability to regain control after the right turn and initial climb. Data from the flight’s black box will be critical in determining if any warning signals or abnormalities were present before the descent.

The Crash: A Rapid Descent and an Unclear Cause

According to the final flight data retrieved from the aircraft, Forsythe had been in the process of executing a routine right-hand turn after takeoff when the jet abruptly began a rapid descent. Witnesses reported seeing the plane fall out of the sky, though details of its descent remain vague, as there were no other planes in the immediate vicinity that might have provided additional data points.

Upon arriving at the scene, emergency responders noted that there were small fires ignited by the impact, though these fires were quickly extinguished. Fortunately, the crash occurred in a wooded area, far enough from any nearby structures that it did not cause further damage or casualties.

In terms of weather conditions, the morning of March 13 was clear with light southerly winds and good visibility, measuring approximately 10 miles. It’s important to note that the weather was not a contributing factor to the crash, as there were no signs of turbulence, low visibility, or adverse conditions in the immediate area. Weather conditions were optimal for flying, ruling out weather-related factors such as fog, high winds, or precipitation as potential causes.

This leaves many investigators questioning whether a mechanical issue, human error, or some other factor may have been at play. The plane’s steep descent rate of 2,750 feet per minute, combined with its ground speed of 196 knots, suggests a catastrophic loss of control, but the exact cause remains unknown at this point.

The Investigation: NTSB and FAA Involvement

In the wake of the crash, both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched investigations to determine the cause of the accident. The NTSB’s role is to conduct a thorough investigation and provide a detailed report on its findings, including an analysis of the aircraft’s flight path, flight systems, and potential contributing factors such as mechanical failure, pilot error, or even possible external influences.

The investigation is expected to take several months. The NTSB has already begun gathering evidence, including flight data from the aircraft’s black box, maintenance records for the Cessna Citation CJ2+, and other relevant flight data that may shed light on what went wrong in the moments leading up to the crash. One key aspect of the investigation will be whether Forsythe experienced any technical or mechanical difficulties that might have impaired his ability to control the plane during the climb and turn shortly after takeoff.

An additional focus will be Forsythe’s medical history and any factors related to his health or personal well-being that may have contributed to the accident. While there are no immediate indications of such factors, the NTSB will examine all possible angles before drawing conclusions.

The Aftermath: Community Response and Continued Investigation

The shock of the crash has reverberated throughout the Mesquite community, where Forsythe was not only a well-respected pilot but also a trusted member of the aviation community. Local businesses and aviation enthusiasts have expressed their condolences, with many recounting stories of Forsythe’s skill, professionalism, and love for flying.

Mesquite Metro Airport, where Forsythe had spent a significant portion of his career, has been deeply affected by the loss. Airport officials have pledged their full cooperation with the NTSB and FAA investigations and have expressed their sadness over the tragic incident.

The aviation community is also taking a close look at the circumstances surrounding the crash in hopes that it will provide insights into preventing similar accidents in the future. While the cause of the crash remains unclear, aviation experts and safety advocates have emphasized the importance of ongoing training, rigorous safety checks, and adherence to best practices in aviation operations. As investigators continue their work, many are urging pilots and aviation organizations to redouble their efforts to maintain the highest standards of safety in the industry.

The Path Forward: Ensuring Flight Safety

As the investigation unfolds, the primary goal remains to uncover the truth behind this tragic accident and to ensure that the aviation industry continues to improve its safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Given Forsythe’s exemplary record as a pilot, many will be watching closely to understand the factors that led to the crash, with hopes that any insights gained will lead to stronger safety protocols and systems.

The NTSB and FAA have yet to release any preliminary findings, but their investigations are expected to take several months. In the meantime, Forsythe’s family, friends, and the broader aviation community continue to mourn the loss of a talented and dedicated professional.

As authorities continue to examine all relevant data, including weather reports, the aircraft’s maintenance history, and other critical factors, they hope to uncover the answers that will prevent such an incident from happening again. For now, the Mesquite community and the aviation world hold their breath as the investigation into the cause of Eric Forsythe’s tragic death continues.