Originally Posted by
Xhorst
Please refrain from embarrassing Monday morning umpire opinions.
The ATC recording indicates the most professional and calm communication and decision making that I think I have ever heard in such a situation. The PIC just witnessed the possible death of presumably a best mate/business partner, and passenger/client. A lessor pilot would probably be in a blubbering mess. I probably would be. I cannot fault the decision making. The ATSB will spend their usual 2-4 years of deliberation over something he had minutes, and probably come to the same conclusion (or no conclusion, that's not really their job). In such a scenario, there is no "Mayday" requirement. There is no "Land at the nearest airport" requirement. There is no "Must avoid overflying an orphanage" requirement. It is down to the judgement of the PIC. Based on the extremely clear and concise coms with ATC and clear decision making apparent, I trust that judgement.
This was a tragic event, with a fortunate and safe outcome for one of the aircraft and its occupants.
All 4 individuals involved are very well known and respected members of the aviation and film industry.
A bit of respect, please, folks.
....and let's learn nothing in the meantime?
Imagine an alternative possible scenario. A part of the returning aircraft's airframe breaking off as the aircraft flew over Port Melbourne on its way to Essendon and the aircraft crashing in a fireball and killing a dozen people on the ground as well as the pilots on the aircraft.
If you've been involved in a midair over Port Philip Bay have some consideration of those you fly over while you're looking for somewhere to put down, and that may mean landing somewhere other than your departure airport. Is this asking too much?