Witness Recounts Final Night of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s Tragic Flight

Pilot Kyle Bailey has recounted the final night of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy before their tragic flight. He reflects on the events of July 16, 1999, the night the couple, along with Carolyn’s sister Lauren Bessette, lost their lives in a plane crash.

Details of the Fateful Night

On that summer evening, Bailey was at Essex County Airport in New Jersey. JFK Jr., aged 38, and Carolyn, 33, were preparing to fly to Martha’s Vineyard Airport. Their plan was to drop off Lauren, who was 34, before traveling to attend a family wedding in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts.

Weather Concerns

Bailey, then 25, had intended to join them on the same flight but ultimately decided against it. He cited increasing haziness and the risk of fog along the coast as his primary concerns. “The fog develops quickly,” he explained, fearing it would obstruct the visual approach to the airport.

Observations at Essex County Airport

Bailey described the atmosphere at the airport as tranquil. He noted that the couple appeared to be engaged in a private conversation as the sun set, casting a “deep orange” hue across the sky. The weather was hazy, hot, and humid, conditions that Bailey found worrisome.

Aftermath of the Crash

After the flight, Bailey recalled waking up to news of a “missing airplane alert.” His heart sank when he recognized the tail number of JFK Jr.’s Piper Saratoga. Tragically, all three passengers were confirmed dead following the incident.

Legacy and Reflection

The Kennedys’ love story and life together are set to be explored in the upcoming FX series, “Love Story,” which will premiere on February 12. This series aims to provide a deeper insight into their relationship against the backdrop of their tragic final flight.