Forgotten Field wrote:
I don't know about what anybody else thinks, but the way that 504 glided, it looks like the pilot was too far away from where he should have been...
Well there are several fields near by that aircraft have landed in before when trouble reared it's ugly head, but there are points around the Aerodrome that are not conducive to an engine failure no matter how close you keep it to the field. They have always tried to keep things close to the runway, but sometimes it's just not the right position.
The NE side of the runway is the least hospitable for an off field landing, Lots of trees and a swamp. Unfortunately, you can't pick the time when your 90 year old engine gives up the ghost.
I've heard many rotaries run and it didn't sound very good on take off, but that could be the camera's mic.
At least the pilot's okay. It's a shame, it was always one of my favorites ever since I saw "One Shot Gatling" back in 1972! From what I understand, the aircraft was just cleared for full flight demos a few weeks ago.
Jerry