Viking Down.

Some bad news out of NAS Jacksonville today: an S-3B Viking crashed while on its landing approach at around 12:30 this afternoon. Two deaths have been confirmed. I did hear rumors that the pilots actually did eject (supposedly some people saw the chutes), but they didn't make it. Whether this was due to not having enough altitude, being too close to the crash, or what, I don't know.

The reason for the crash is unknown at this time. It happened not long after it started absolutely pouring rain, so it was probably weather related. I'm just glad no one on the ground was killed. I actually haven't been in the park, where the plane crashed, but I could just imagine the plane going down on a sunny Saturday when people are out and about. A friend of mine assures me that the only people out and about in that park are just looking for a good time, if you know what I mean. (I guess Westside Park is a little, uh, seedy.)

I suppose the skipper of the Weapons School will call a meeting to discuss the incident. I wonder if I know the two pilots; I guess we'll find out soon enough. I saw one of the instructors late in the day and he had his game face on. Flying may seem like fun and games, but it is serious stuff.

I noticed on one of the video feeds that there was a demonstrator with a sign that said "This is why I don't want you over my house...!" I think this crash may sound the death knell in terms of public opinion in the debate over recommissioning Cecil Field.

Here is some video coverage on First Coast News.