Sun, Sep 02, 2012
SeaRey Amphib's Landing Gear Tangles With Powerlines On Airport Approach
ANN REALTIME Update, 09.01.12, 2331 ET: James Bach is now reporting that Richard's condition has improved and that his prognosis is "guardedly optimistic."
Original Report: Aviation author, Richard Bach, has been critically injured in an approach to landing accident while flying an Amateur Built-Experimental SeaRey Amphib (file photos, below) he purchased earlier this year.
According to media reports, Richard went down while approaching a grass strip on San Juan Island and caught powerlines with the gear. Bach's injuries required his removal to Seattle where he is under the care of physicians at Harborview Medical Center. Media reports indicate that Bach is in critical but stable condition with little additional medical detail other than reports of his suffering a head injury and a broken shoulder.
The aircraft's impact was considerable and the bird was found upside about two miles from Friday Harbor. Several of the power poles supporting the lines the aircraft hit were pulled down a small grass fire ensued.
Bach, 76, is the author of some of the aviation world's favorite books, especially "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" and "Illusions: the Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah." A long time pilot, Bach has extensive experience in a number of piston and jet powered aircraft and purchased the SeaRey this year after an extensive checkout at the Progressive Aerodyne HQ in Tavares, FL.
James Bach, Richard's son, said his Father was flying solo and that he and his Doctors are hopeful for a full recovery. "Right now we're waiting for the sedation to wear off, for him to fully wake up," said James.
We'll keep you updated... and wish Richard a swift return to good health and the ability to enjoy his life-long love affair with aviation.
More News
Say Altitude Used by ATC to ascertain an aircraft's specific altitude/flight level. When the aircraft is climbing or descending, the pilot should state the indicated altitude round>[...]
Aero Linx: European Air Law Association (EALA) EALA was established in 1988 with the aim to promote the study of European air law and to provide an open forum for those with an int>[...]
From 2023 (YouTube Version): The Life, Death, Life, Death, and Life of a Glorious Warbird In 1981, business-owner Jim Tobul and his father purchased a Chance-Vought F4U Corsair. Mo>[...]
Also: USCG Retires MH-65 Dolphins, Irish Aviation Authority, NATCA Warns FAA, Diamond DA42 AD This summer, history enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to experience World Wa>[...]
Also: WACO Kitchen Bails, French SportPlane Mfr to FL, Dynon-Advance Flight Systems, Innovation Preview Bobby Bailey, a bit of a fixture in sport aviation circles for his work with>[...]