Risky Business

Although I’ve never had the opportunity to attend the Reno National Championship Air Races, I’ve always been something of a fan. I mean, what pilot isn’t interested in an activity involving airplanes and in which the maxim is “go fast, turn left?” So it was with great shock and sadness I learned about the September 16 crash of Jimmy Leeward and Galloping Ghost, his modified P-51 Mustang, into the box seat area at Reno. In addition to Leeward, 10 spectators died, and another 66 suffered serious injuries.

Key Takeaways:

• The article reflects on the tragic September 2011 crash of Jimmy Leeward's modified P-51 Mustang, "Galloping Ghost," at the Reno National Championship Air Races, which killed Leeward and multiple spectators.
• The author criticizes mass media coverage for misrepresenting the highly modified nature of the aircraft and failing to acknowledge the professionalism and safety measures within air racing.
• The incident is described as a near-worst-case, rare event, emphasizing the unforgiving nature of flying airplanes, especially when pushing the limits in unlimited racing.

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