Much talked Icon A5 crashes, killing 2 people on board. The aircraft known for its unique flying characteristics, folding wings and an appeal to recreational pilots crashed on the shores of Lake Berryessa, in Napa County, California. The two killed were John Karkow (55), companies lead aeronautical engineer and his colleague Cagri Sever(41). They were known for their commendable service in the aviation industry. Icon CEO Kirk Hawkins in a statement said he was devastated by the loss. Further he went on to say “ The thoughts and prayer of our entire organization are with the family of both the people on board, they were both truly amazing individuals”. Thou the reason for the crash is unknown, the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating on the matter.
Icon A5, having made its maiden flight in 2006, was one of the best aircrafts in the market which appealed to beginner and recreational pilots. The aircraft was known for its spin and stall resistant design. It was built to remain stable even when there is less air flow in certain areas, which happens when the aircraft flies too slowly or if the wings are pitched too vertically which can send aircraft spiraling downward. The built largely composed of carbon fiber, the aircraft is known to take off from both land and water. Priced at $190,000, its does 121mph with a range of 345 mile was known as a weekend getaway aircraft. In 2012, it became the first aircraft to meet the FAA’s new spin resistance standard.
Known for its safety first design with experienced pilots on board, this gives us an insight on the saying – “leaving the ground doesn’t comes with a guarantee of safe return”.
