Stearman into water - Tulsa, OK - 29 Aug 22

PeterNSteinmetz

Administrator
Staff member
From PoA:

Looks like someone in Tulsa dropped a Stearman into Keystone Lake. Unknown cause at this point, but both pilot and passenger made it out without any significant injuries and were taken to shore via boat. Luckily it happened on the weekend when there was decent boat traffic to assist them, otherwise it may have been a tougher swim.

https://www.newson6.com/story/630bf...-of-crashed-plane-in-keystone-lake-identified

One of the witnesses said she filmed it, and that he did 2 passes. That is worrisome, as it suggests he might have been hotdogging instead of ditching. 66 year old male pilot with a 19 year old female passenger. Neither was seriously injured, which is good. At least with an open cockpit biplane you have a good chance to get out without drowning, as long as you are conscious.

Update for NTSB report: Pilot flew into powerlines (no surprise). Passenger said the pilot told her that they would do what he called "water dancing" shortly prior to noticing they were at the same height as the power transmission towers. Even worse, the pilot instructed the young lady passenger to say it was engine failure or the insurance company wouldn't cover it. Girl was underwater for up to 20 seconds trying to undo the seat belt which the pilot latched for her during preflight when she couldn't figure it out. Almost cost her life.

https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket?ProjectID=105808

Yeah, thinking there ought to be a little more penalty than a 709-ride for this guy. Multiple deficiencies in his conduct and some hazardous attitudes as well. Killed a beautiful PT-17 in the process.
 
Agreed. This was seriously tortious behavior regardless of any FAA regulations. Hope there is serious certificate action and possibly a civil complaint by the young woman.
 
Back
Top