Bob Collins mid-air trial

[mikea]

Did you know that radar and Class D towers prevent midairs, even in VFR conditions when the pilot reports his position wrong?

Attorneys for the three victims contend that an aircraft controller was at fault in the collision, and the accident ultimately was the responsibility of the FAA. An air traffic control expert was expected to take the stand later today.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-070207collinstrial,1,5600624.story?coll=chi-news-hed

Previous stories:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/...06,1,2894930.story?coll=chi-newslocalwest-hed
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/...599046.story?coll=chi-newslocalssouthwest-hed

Oh, and he had diabetes. I would have bet there was another reason why he always flew with another pilot, but that should have come out.

One disgusting thing is the tower control contractor already settled.

 

[flyingcheesehead]

One disgusting thing is the tower control contractor already settled.

They probably took one look at what happened to Parker Hannafin after the Carnahan crash and decided to get while the gettin' was good.

 

[mikea]

I wonder if the FAA lawyers will get a chance to explain see and avoid.

The plaintiff lawyers probably have a response for that. "The government claims that it is reasonable for airplanes GOING OVER 100 MILES AN HOUR TO JUST AVOID EACH OTHER!"

They're hanging their hat on the UGN tower getting the BRITE radar after the crash. That proves it was needed, of course. This is why businesses hate to fix problems. Don't shovel the snow. Don't offer first aid.

As I recall the radar was paid for by the FBO, BTW.