Pilot Stories

For more than a century, bush flying has built bridges and saved lives.

Cessna 172 Skyhawk Pescadero, California/Injuries: 1 Fatal Radar data indicated that the pilot departed around dusk and proceeded over the ocean, paralleling the coastline for about 20 miles before radar contact was lost about 3 miles offshore. Several persons in a campground that overlooked the ocean, witnessed an aircraft impact the water a few miles […]

Our pick for the week of Friday, December 11, 2020

Why was the Piper Tomahawk suffering so many loss-of-control crashes? After an FAA/NTSB investigation and recertification, you’d think the answer would be clear. You’d be wrong.

Let L 23 Super Blanik Moose, Wyoming/Injuries: 2 Fatal The pilot and one passenger departed on a sightseeing tour flight in the glider. After being released from the tow airplane about 13,800 ft mean sea level (msl), the glider pilot proceeded to fly over a national park near mountainous terrain. A video recording of the […]

The best flying buddy imaginable.

A couple brings home their new taildragger for the first time. Wait ’til you see this landing.

A midair collision can happen so fast and unexpectedly, you could quite literally never know what hit you. Here’s how I got lucky.

What a low missed approach looks like’€¦ and a camera that you’re probably going to want after seeing this video.

RANS S-12 Airaile Hillrose, Colorado/Injuries: 2 Serious The noncertificated pilot reported that, during a local flight, he noticed an area of smoke and fire near his property. The pilot descended the airplane to about 20 ft above ground level to see what was burning, which diverted his attention from flying. The pilot “immediately” pulled up […]