Be Very Afraid of This Pilot

After running this blog for three years or so I can honestly say I’ve seen and heard quite a few really interesting stories about the aviation industry. I’m headed to AOPA Summit in Tampa next week because I want to hear a few more.

The other day I got a note with a video link from another avid blogger, Max Trescott, the Digital Cockpit god at Max Trescott on General Aviation. Quite frankly it sent shivers down my spine even though the video ran just a few minutes.

I’m not sure precisely where it was shot, but it was a bunch of guys in a 36 model Bonanza providing chase plane photography services to an L-39.

It became terrifying to me as an instructor when the Bonanza inadvertently flew into IMC. In a flash, I caught a glimpse of trees flying past the windshield and realized how close these idiots all came to meeting their maker. Hang in when you watch it for the part where they survey the damage to the Bonanza after they land.

This video should be required viewing for every VFR pilot about the dangers of getting lost in the clouds. As Max said, “This pilot should have his license pulled.” Give the video a few minutes of your time and pass on the link. And if you ever survive a flight like this, turn the pilot in, please. You might just save a life or two.

Rob Mark