Stupid Pilot Tricks

Each year we pause in the quest for aviation excellence to examine those whove boldly gone where others with a mere dram of sense wouldnt. This review covers 2012, the most recent year for which the NTSB offers probable cause to improbable silliness. Only non-fatal events are covered because we assume its bad form to ridicule the dead. Contestants are limited to the USA, because, hell, we invented flight, even though France claims the naming rights. Plus, few other countries offer our freedom to fail.

Key Takeaways:

• The 2012 review of non-fatal aviation incidents reveals a pattern of egregious pilot errors, primarily centered on severe fuel mismanagement and neglect of basic preflight checklists.
• Many accidents stemmed from pilots' questionable judgment, including engaging in risky low-altitude flying, disregarding safety protocols, and attempting dangerous maneuvers for show.
• A recurring theme was pilots and instructors attempting to conceal damage, downplay incidents, or avoid reporting accidents to aviation authorities.

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