A pilot's final, chilling message to air traffic control has been revealed moments before his single-engine aircraft crashed onto a Massachusetts highway, claiming his life and that of his wife.
The Fatal Flight and Final Moments
Thomas Perkins, 68, and his wife Agatha Perkins, 66, from Rhode Island, departed New Bedford Regional Airport on the morning of October 13 aboard a private Socata TBM 700 aircraft. Their intended destination was Wisconsin.
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot contacted air traffic control to announce he would be returning to the airport. According to a crash report obtained by the Boston Globe, the controller then asked if the pilot could perform an approach to the airport, noting that cloud ceilings were approximately 1,000 feet, or if he would require radar vectors.
The pilot, who authorities believe was Thomas Perkins, assured the controller he 'should be okay' and stated he would not require assistance in landing the aircraft.
The Descent and Crash
Just one minute after being cleared for landing, the situation turned critical. The controller issued a low altitude alert. In response, the pilot made what was described as an 'unintelligible exclamation' before all contact was lost.
The aircraft did not reach the runway. It plummeted through trees and crashed onto the median of Interstate 195 in Dartmouth. The impact caused a fire that consumed both of the plane's wings. Thomas and Agatha Perkins were declared dead at the scene.
The plane struck one car on the highway during the crash. The driver of that vehicle was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The major highway was forced to close for most of the day as emergency services responded and investigators began their work.
Legacy of the Victims and Ongoing Investigation
While the official crash report has not determined the precise cause of the tragedy, weather conditions that morning were notably severe. A Nor'easter was impacting the region, bringing heavy rain and strong winds.
The couple left behind a legacy of community service and family commitment. Thomas Perkins was the founder of Kirby Perkins Construction and was remembered for his 'unwavering loyalty, steadfast spirit, and deep commitment to his family, friends, and community'. He also volunteered for Angel Flight Northeast, an organisation that provides free air transport for those needing to reach medical care.
Notably, the aircraft was registered to the Air Charity Network, the parent organisation of various Angel Flight charities.
Agatha Perkins was described as possessing an 'infectious spirit, generous heart, sense of adventure, and joyful demeanour'. She worked as a personal trainer, Pilates instructor, and was a former teacher.
The couple is survived by their two children and three grandchildren. The Federal Aviation Administration has confirmed that the wreckage has been retained for further examination as the investigation into this tragic aviation accident continues.
