Richard Collins in Air Facts has pointed out a recent and provocative post on “The Daily Beast” from author Clive Irving that was entitled: “Reno’s Reckless Air Tragedy.” Clive’s post began with the following byline:
The plane crash that killed three (actually nine – Ed.) and injured dozens of spectators at a Reno air race Friday is a reminder of how lax precautions often turn air shows into disasters.
And continued with the following opening paragraph:
What was a 74-year-old pilot doing in a souped-up World War II fighter flying in an air race? The tragedy in Reno is a ghastly reminder that the normal rules of public safety are suspended when air shows are involved.
Naturally, Clive, who is a non-pilot, followed up by mentioning a few other air show tragedies and the tone of his piece was decidedly negative on air shows or air racing in general – leaving no doubt that he probably wants to seem them either banned or more heavily regulated by the government.
Meanwhile, Richard commented that within hours of the post being written, it already had 200 mostly negative comments from readers. Hence, we want to ask you our readers what you think: Is Clive Irving’s take about the Reno Air Races right or is he just trying to be provocative?
Not sure of Clive Irving's motif(s), provocative enough to make me write. In my opinion he is all wrong and I would bet that he is friends with the two FAA inspectors that grounded Bob Hoover.
All three of them don't know what they are talking about!
I hope this means Mr irving will not be attending Reno next year. I can assure him he will not be missed.
The accident was most unfortunate. The loss of a skilled pilot and spectators who had come to enjoy their day. Even the greatest things can go in the wrong direction.