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Pilot Dies in Fiery Cornfield Crash
10 Nov
Summary
- Pilot died after his jet crashed into a Kentucky cornfield.
- The pilot was flying with his daughter, who landed safely.
- NTSB investigators are leading the probe into the fatal crash.
A 70-year-old Wisconsin man, James Alan Michaels, perished in a fiery plane crash on Sunday, November 8th. His military-style L-39 Albatros jet went down in a cornfield in Mayfield, Kentucky, shortly after departing.
Michaels and his 35-year-old daughter, Tonie Michaels, were flying separate jets back to Wisconsin from Mississippi after stopping for fuel in Mayfield. He radioed that he was experiencing issues and intended to return to the airport but soon after reported he would not be able to land.
The aircraft reportedly struck a ditch in the field, causing it to catch fire and roll. The pilot was the sole occupant and was pronounced dead at the scene. His daughter landed safely at the airport and alerted authorities.
NTSB investigators are now leading the probe into the crash. They will examine the pilot, the aircraft, and the operating environment, collecting data such as flight tracks, communications, maintenance records, and witness statements. A final report detailing the probable cause is expected within 12 to 24 months.
Notably, sixteen years prior, in July 2010, James Michaels and his daughter survived a similar small-plane crash in Colorado after encountering a downdraft, landing in heavy timber.
