Palo Alto, Calif., area pilots turned out in force May 20 to prove their commitment to air safety in the ongoing wake of a fatal Cessna 310 accident Feb. 17. The multiengine airplane crashed into the community, killing all three on board the aircraft, creating extensive property damage on the ground, and knocking out power to the city. No one on the ground was injured.
About 200 pilots attended the AOPA Air Safety Foundation safety seminar, “Safe Skies, Good Neighbors,” presented by aviation author and 2008 CFI of the year Max Trescott. The large turnout for the safety seminar demonstrated local pilots’ dedication to safety and respect for the surrounding communities.
AOPA Airport Support Network volunteer Bob Lenox, who reached out to AOPA immediately after the accident, worked with the foundation and Palo Alto Airport Association board member Mark Deem to tailor the safety seminar specifically to the flying conditions and procedures at the airport.
“Bob’s engagement helped prevent negative long-term impacts on GA in Palo Alto after this fatal accident and created an opportunity to better educate pilots,” said AOPA Airport Support Network Director Joey Colleran. “This is a great example of how local pilot participation, working together with AOPA and the Air Safety Foundation, can act to improve safety and address community concerns.”
