Comments on: What was he thinking? – Part II

By: Jeff Sponberg

Jeff Sponberg — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 21:48:03 +0000

This was reckless behavior beyond comprehension. What possess a pilot to even consider doing something that dangerous? I would really like to know!

By: Bendrix Bailey

Bendrix Bailey — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 17:37:23 +0000

HI Bruce,

Nice message. Sadly, the pilots who need the advice don’t subscribe to the sources of wise counsel. They don’t listen to other pilots either.

Years ago I tried being a voice of safety on the COPA board and got reamed for it. Specifically, I recall one long exchange of posts regarding buzzing a lake (with a Cirrus) at high speed with no possible way to land safely. It was an ugly series of posts. There have been other issues along the same vein such as flying IFR without a clearance because “with TCAS you don’t need ATC to keep you separated” and other such unwise and rogue flight practices.

I gave up. I don’t post anymore and I don’t counsel anymore. I take pictures and make recordings when it happens within sight and I email those to the FAA. Enforcement to get these jokers out of the sky is the only solution. I hate to lose pilots, but in this case, that is a misplaced sentiment. Sort of like lamenting the loss of citizens who rob banks.

Have a great day,

Ben

By: Jfeet

Jfeet — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:56:58 +0000

Ground him for life and he should count himself very, very fortunate.

By: N Lynn Thoma

N Lynn Thoma — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 13:54:10 +0000

Aw rats, now I have to look up IMHO…
An excuse that might work?
Ah yes, here it is…”There was a huge tumor pressing on my brain. Here are the X-rays, cat-scans and other medical reports.”
Otherwise, I agree with John.

By: J. R. Bridges II

J. R. Bridges II — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 12:53:32 +0000

First, pilots like this should have their ticket revoked permanently.
Second I have seen student pilots who have demostrated this type of behavoir during training and still get a sign off for a check ride. Even the biggest IDIOT in the world is not going to demonstrate this type of behavior to a examinor or Designated examinor. The only way to stop the issuance of a certificate to some who shows this personality to begin with is for CFI’s to refuse to give them a sign off for the check ride to begin with. Admittedly you wont stop all from getting through but you will stop some.
Third, pilots who get exposed to this type of pilot shoud make a report to the FAA. Dont worry about losing a friend, just think about the lives you may be saving.

By: Gerard

Gerard — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 01:51:10 +0000

I had to look up what IMHO was….. Anyway IMHO, any pilot who demonstrates such reckless disregard needs to be grounded permanently, no exceptions. I also counter that if you know someone like this, forgo suggesting ASF videos and just report them. There is already way too much pressure on GA.

By: Sam Ferguson

Sam Ferguson — Sat, 12 Feb 2011 18:35:29 +0000

IMHO people do things (such as flying) because they have a love and passion for it, or because they seek recognition, appreciation, and/or respect for it. Again, IMHO these “thrill-seekers”, which come in all shape in sizes, and different professions, are less than professional highly insecure individuals that are a menace to themselves and those around them. I highly suggest the individual get counseling/therapy else he/she just find another way to self destruct.

By: Bruce Landsberg

Bruce Landsberg — Sat, 12 Feb 2011 16:52:46 +0000

John….

We’ll take a look for photos but these things have a way of not getting into the publicly available files. As for the safety sessions/seminars feel free to use the PSAs ASI has posted.

By: John Townsley

John Townsley — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 15:47:21 +0000

Bruce:
Any chance you could post a link to the police report, FAA report, photos of the car/aircraft? This is useful material for hangar flying, and for formal safety sessions.

This candidate for the Darwin Award was smiled upon by fate. Too bad the aircraft likely wound up in the salvage yard. It’s hard to argue with previous posts that the pilot would best serve aviation as a great “FORMER” pilot.

By: jimmy

jimmy — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 11:02:54 +0000

As a former pipeline/ air-show/ and cable line pilot, I can see that this individual was out to show his buddy the art of a skill he did not possess, and I am sure that this individual is regretting a decision made without thinking of safety to others as well as himself. I see a 609 ride, and some training in the future for this pilot.