I Crashed My Airplane Draco

[@mmgtl]

My heart skipped a beat when I first saw this, so glad you're ok.

[@mudpuddle8805]

My condolences. It takes a giant of a man to share something like this.

[@FlightChops]

Glad you’re all ok and hats off for a solid and humble debrief while the dust was literally still settling!

[@jasonandrew5707]

Im glad to see a lot of other aviation youtubers giving their input on this. I watch your channel, im a fan.

[@compt3ck]

The honesty of the debrief is shocking and inspiring. I cant imagine what hes feeling after all that hard work. Im sad and all I did was watch the build videos. Glad everyone is ok. That could have been bad.

[@PBicknell]

Glad that everyone is okay. Mike is an inspiration. #GBTW

[@botchi1]

💖 Best wishes from Pilot Bo.

[@botchi1]

💖 Best wishes from Pilot Bo.

[@midafricam]

Admitting one's mistakes - shows strength and humility, Draco was a true classic, it will rise again

[@quickdraw881]

Anything can be rebuilt

[@mariadelia7945]

And with the attitude “I built it” and no instructor can teach me anything about flying it, almost certain it will be crashed again, but this time, whoever is in the plane, may not walk away from it. Arrogance with false humility is a dangerous combination.

[@lockpickinglawyer]

Glad to hear everyone is ok. Go hug your family, have a beer, internalize the lessons, and get back in the saddle quickly.

[@brien1254]

Fancy seeing you here

[@nbrowser]

Didn't expect to see you here LPL, I watched the build series on this special aircraft....glad Mike's ok but damn....Draco was special.

[@joebessette6565]

@Kenneth James I don't think there's anything awesome that LPL doesn't enjoy!

[@WiltWa]

I agree, with all of you! Was a little surprised that LPL follows Mike just like I do, shouldn’t have been, but I was.

[@joebessette6565]

I was genuinely surprised also, this guy just gets cooler and more relevant by the minute lol

[@35oz19g]

And THAT is what a MAN looks like kids.... We need more role models like this man! God bless you sir! 👍

[@mywifeh8sthis864]

Exactly. Ive never been one to idolize personalities or famous people but this guy intrigues me along with elon musk. Hes brilliant and real and someone i look up to. Mike Patey for president. #PATEY2020

[@rollbot]

Absolutely agree

[@TheBeefBaron]

Please don't let this discourage you Mike! You're inspiring pilots everywhere so please keep up your enthusiasm and your unbelievable work ethic.

[@dgsam9167]

Absolutely

[@richardshortman5645]

What a display of character.

[@cfeigel]

Dude! From the looks of things, Draco gave its life to save yours. You're in one piece! That's the important thing. Back to work!

[@gaittr]

The aviation world may miss your aircraft, but we're even more happy that you're still here with us.

[@DannyECO7]

My heart is heavy with the loss of this aircraft. It was an amazing ambassador for aviation. But, you are still alive. That's what matters. Draco was incredible, but not as much as Mike Patey. Back to work. 💪🏼🤠

[@matthewsoderquist5424]

Daniel E. Colón Well said. Love it

[@Killerb42091]

I waited 3 weeks to watch this because Draco was my favorite plane, and I knew I would literally cry... he was the coolest plane ever. So glad everyone else is ok and hope no injuries snuck up on them. RIP Draco the coolest plane ever, you were loved. Gosh, I must sound like a lunatic lol I’m the same way with my vehicles.

[@thebirdwhoflew312]

Draco is the baddest STOL plane to ever exist and so I’m so sorry that your baby is sitting there in that condition. And although the pictures are disheartening WE are ALL SO HAPPY that you are standing in front of the camera telling us what happened. We are here with you and will stay with you to see DRACO 2. Thank you for all you do and thank you for sharing with us your triumphs and tribulations.

[@WhiteEagleTube]

Success is not the absence of failure; it's the persistence through failure.

[@Terribleguitarist89]

As a student pilot, extreme respect for having the intestinal fortitude to own it and give a debrief.

[@ninaangelamckissockauthor2345]

Classic example of "gotta get there-itis."

[@ParadigmUnkn0wn]

It's easier when you can afford to rebuild it in short order. Money helps smooth out a lot of mistakes.

[@mariadelia7945]

@@ParadigmUnkn0wn Spot on.

[@boddysurfer]

@@ParadigmUnkn0wn Except that most people with money are incapable of admitting their mistakes, not to mention learning from them. Mike is a rare example of that.

[@RolfLongreach]

Sad that Draco is wrecked, but it was just a thing that Mike made. Mike is okay he can make more things. I am just so glad no one was hurt!

[@Chingon1west]

Mike is always making things he is kinda inspiring me to get back into flying but on a lot smaller level. Glad all were ok.

[@eriklarson9137]

I love it! I hope he can feel the same some day soon.

[@JoeGreene70]

Mike's the kind of guy who can rebuild, *and* invent some fix to spoil uncommanded roll from gusts like a nascar flap or something.

[@Kpawaitawai]

Rolf Longreach thank God for life.

[@budbrady3289]

I don't even fly, but your honesty, attitude, and message is applicable to everyone.....

[@alphabravocharlie2245]

Anyone can wreck, takes a real man to acknowledge he messed up. Glad you walked away.... btw, your mad loved in this community, Facebook and social media went into overdrive

[@buckyperchski-mc2vo]

Thanks for being a man and sharing this experience so that others can learn from it. Some guys might run from their mistakes, make excuses, etc.... but you are a real man and admit your mistake so we can all learn. We all make mistakes. Its how you act afterwards that defines true character.

[@stevewilliams7808]

Even in this dark moment your qualities shine through. So glad everyone is okay.

[@p756]

A true humble man and even takes responsibility for his actions. Glad everyone is okay. Respect to you sir.

[@ChadRyan]

The fact that you’re here talking to us is all that matters.

[@CAPFlyer]

@@matthewl6565 Amen.

[@chucklesx]

I was watching an interview a while ago with a pilot that was involved in a warbird crash after an engine failure at an airshow. The owner of the the aircraft made a comment which I thought was great, he said an aircrafts one job is to keep it's occupants safe when it's flying and if it stops flying. Based on "one broken finger nail" being the extent of the injuries I would say Draco did it's job extremely well... a testament to both the plane and it's builder.

[@clydemactavish3457]

a plane like this can lead people to think they're invincible. Thank you for being honest with your story - it's a hard thing to do. I'm glad everyone was okay and as a pilot I will learn from this so thank you for that as well.

[@landlocked4771]

Your honesty is heart warming, So glad everybody is ok. Draco is once again a project, there is no way you won't fix it. May God Bless You and yours for ever and keep you safe. Now get to work and fix that plane.

[@martinodendaal9267]

Draco was built already. It's just a repair job now, no designing etc. Great spirit Mike ! Lovely to see that. Sorry about the error, but it's a true human thing.

[@marcstecker746]

Glad you and your passengers are safe. You're still the man for taking responsibliity for this.

[@flywiththeguys]

So sad to hear about this. You and Draco have been an inspiration to me and those around me. I've even contemplated flying up to Spanish Fork just to meet you and see Draco in person. My wife and I are happy to hear that the only harm caused by the crash was your wife's nail. Not sure what can be done with Draco, but we hope to hear a follow up story soon. Excited for Scrappy, now get to work!

[@thurin84]

it takes a big man to own and learn from his mistakes.

[@FlyMIfYouGotM]

And a smart one.

[@bigmiami3763]

what was he gonna blame lmao, plane was almost tipped over on the ground and he still went for it

[@carolpreston2353]

I'm so so sorry I think it is the coolest plane ever....I know you will rebuild Draco , she will be better than ever.....

[@adamgentry332]

Strong man to admit fault like that. Not alot of people have that level of character anymore

[@seq165432]

It seems to be a characteristic broadly missing these days - especially in Washington!

[@gordonbell2567]

I could not believe it. I just completed my 20th hour today and when I landed I went back to my truck and got my phone and saw the video. Defect that he admitted salt is true. It's absolutely amazing. Being humble and honest is a skill that is lost in times like today. You made a very valid point and thank you for posting it

[@mikemondrik2041]

Glad your ok. Maybe we'll meet someday

[@kevincopley941]

Arma3 509th chances are he is a much better pilot than you lol

[@tompaulism]

@Arma3 509th and you are perfect?!? This is a childish response to a mature and honest admition of a mistake.

[@ryanm.191]

A pilots gut feeling is nothing to shake a stick at Rest in pieces draco, Stay positive mike.

[@rickorvis5575]

I’m so so sorry about your plane. The only thing that is right with this is that no one got hurt. You are the man and you will bounce back from this. Thank God everyone is alright, he was definitely watching out for you, your wife and friend. I loved that plane from the very beginning and all the time you put in it, I know it hurts. Again I’m so very sorry about Draco.😊

[@rickorvis5575]

😔🙁

[@TeachAManToAngle]

Extreme ownership. I think this is the real reason we like your videos so much. The planes are cool, but the human is incredible. Glad you are safe.

[@geebee802]

Words of truth! I love the planes, enthusiasm, and excitement to ‘get back to work’... but at the end of the day, Mike is truly an inspiration and a role-model of a man and airman. Lives life with passion, integrity, unwavering pursuit of dreams... and a grand demonstration of humility. Can’t imagine the onslaught of emotions he’ll be going through the next few days - so sorry for the loss but grateful to see all 3 will be ‘getting back to work’!

[@howiedo1124]

Teach a man to fish AMEN!!

[@alfredcrabtree7085]

Hear, Hear!! I came across the Draco project looking for carbon fiber videos. I have been a fan ever since, mostly because Mike is inspirational. Draco was awesome too, but when I grow up I wanna be like Mike, and I'm 50.. Glad everyone came out OK, and sharing this tough time WILL help other people from making similar choices. I know there will be a Draco II at some point, that machine was revolutionary.

[@garysmith643]

I clicked the like button only to show support. Glad to see no injuries . Best wishes

[@FormulaZR]

Never thought my heart would sink from a KZbin notification. I've never met Mike or saw Draco in person, but I'm sick for you. Glad you're ok.

[@chrisbowpiloto]

FormulaZR same.

[@davidrichards2237]

Its called empathy. A lot of us feel it watching this.

[@cynthiaklenk6313]

I almost made it to Oshkosh last year - I would have watched the STOL competition (however I did watch it on KZbin in the EAA link). Fear not Draco II will be at Osh in future years! Fly safe!

[@williambrixey7536]

New subscriber saw Draco for the first time just a few weeks ago; first time watching your post-crash video. Good people always own their mistakes; great men make a difference and you, Mark and your families do! God bless and be well!!

[@WoodysGamertag]

Thanks for making this video. I don't know you but I like you. I root for good things to happen for you. I love the way you accept responsibility for the errors that happened before the accident. It's an outdoor sport, we can't blame the wind. It's about our reaction to it. We'll miss Draco but I'm glad we don't have to miss you. Tonight you'll sleep well, tomorrow you'll wake up, and all the important things are still ok.

[@ericmuetterties1984]

Here, here!

[@Newberntrains]

pours a shot for woody no truer words spoken

[@jasonandrew5707]

Hey Woody! Glad you had some input on this. Btw I love your paramotor videos.

[@dhatfield936]

Couldn’t say it better. So glad everyone is ok. Can’t wait to see Draco either rise again or SON OF DRACO. Best wishes.

[@aaronhorn6849]

Hey Woody! There has been too many bad accidents this year just in paramotoring alone. Like every video I've watched on the subject, pilot error is the running theme. I too am glad that Both you and Mike are is still here to share and point out what went wrong and how you both have worn these mistakes for all of us to see and more impotantly for pilots, and non pilots too, to learn from.

[@nicklockard]

Let's review the outcomes here: Positives- Hot wife intact Best buddy intact You're intact Humility increased Mindfulness increased Negatives- Ego bruised Plane broke Net result is 5/2 positive ratio. I'd say you're blessed even. Keep pushin!

[@longshot7601]

6/2 positive ratio. Kids intact.

[@bryanpd6882]

U mean, " keep bushin' ".

[@williampotter2098]

I know I've gained respect for him.

[@indridcold8433]

Wow! He does have a red hot wife! With that type of support, Draco will fly again!

[@Dgadude]

@@williampotter2098 1000%

[@nmnmnm35]

man of character. Not many would step up and admit their wrongs.

[@olliea6052]

Very true. One solid man!

[@ralphtarver918]

Hard to argue when it's going viral on youtube. We all make 'em though.

[@1crzflyer]

who's else would it be?

[@henryxavier3751]

nm.... he sounds and looks like he is drunk 😵 No medical attention? Good old RARA and its policies...once again.

[@nmnmnm35]

@@henryxavier3751 That man could probably do more in one day black out drunk than you could in your lifetime. Go cry elsewhere

[@Zizie_sc]

Man, your face at the “nobody’s hurt.. except for in there.” Really hit hard and showed the weight of the moment. Glad you’re okay, and I’m truly sorry about your loss.. regardless of who’s “fault” it really was. I hope you’re feeling better about this situation today.

[@robertjorgenson4593]

Sorry Mike, but thank you for the demonstration of integrity, a rare commodity these days

[@Studmaster007]

She'll be right mate you'll build a bigger and a better one, hopefully a few usable parts can be recovered. Really enjoyed meeting you at OshKosh, see you next year with Draco II

[@uploadJ]

Yup. Full admission. Admirable.

[@SabbaticusRex]

Not just the integrity , but also the way he is absolutely sincere about it. Plenty of people talk the talk and boast of integrity but after watching part of one video and seeing him for the first time during likely one of his worst moments -- lame as it sounds I was 'taken aback' by how sincere he was. It gets even a mean bastard like myself in the heart. This guy has grace , no doubt. Also great to see a community that isn't toxic and is so supportive.

[@Unknowelement25]

Glad everyone is ok. Kudos Mike for owning it and making it a learning lesson for the community.

[@zawzawaung6789]

This is what a real man looks & sounds like. Does not blame anybody but himself.

[@keithsorrels6903]

Thanking God that you're all safe, this event is not your legacy. Your legacy is your God given design, artistry, creativity and ability to build something unusual and unique. Plus you're an amazing guy with an amazing amount of integrity and the world needs more men like you, your honesty is refreshing.

[@25birthdays]

What an awesome cheerleader! She came right up and loved you and comforted you. Every man deeply needs an effective cheerleader. Instincts of a goddess. I would keep her. Forever.

[@woncameron24]

Very glad you’re okay and can share lessons learned. This will make you better in every way.

[@that_puffsley_guy]

This is actually really depressing. I feel bad for how much work went into Draco. Glad everyone is ok.

[@WillBorgers]

yeah, this hurts me so much more than if i'd seen him stack a new factory built. there isn't a replacement option with this one.

[@vaughntaylor7638]

Draco may be gone but we still have you and your family does too.

[@FilipKyzek]

Vaughn Taylor That is beautiful...

[@ohwell2790]

Looks to me that the major parts of the plane are intact, bet that this plane will fly again. Mike is not a quitter. He will rebuild DRACO. Those who do not try will never succeed. Thanks Mike we are with you. I had a flight chief when I was a crew chief on a C130 E. If you do not screw up once in a while you are not doing your job ( small things for you arm chair mechanics ). Also a Crew Chief that did not have a rag hanging out of his back pocket was not looking at his plane. My airplane 64-1799 had 30,000 hours plus in 1990 and had 2 sets of wings put on by depot at my home base with me assisting. Mike, been there done that and by the way I am 75 and not done with life yet. Carry on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@provousa2253]

This Video touches many hearts and teaches us that we are "Only-Human" I too crashed my tow truck just after having covered my !,000,000 million miles accident free didn't total it but felt like you in total disbelief but remembered to ONLY blame my self like a real Man accepts responsibility never blame anything else if you know 100% percent that it was Pilot/Driver error. Love this channel more & more !!!! Your neighbor here in Provo close to the Airport entrance less than a mile away !!!!

[@ChristopherFreezeYT]

"We can rebuild him; we have the technology. We have the capability to make the world's first bionic plane. Draco will be that plane. Better than he was before. Better. Stronger. Faster." That said, am elated no one was hurt.

[@geraldgraham2319]

The hug and kiss from your wife at the end is really all that matters.

[@dannywilsher4165]

And her nail......

[@juststeve5542]

Except she broke a nail... He's gonna get sh*t for that ;-)

[@BradDunteman]

Yep. He owned the mistake and everyone's ok. I appreciate the humility, candor, and bravery he displayed by sharing. Best wishes to Mike.

[@mulldb]

Gerald, you pretty much said it all!

[@ghhg-je8wv]

The draco did her most important job. she kept ya alive.

[@Fiarati]

So much respect, it takes a good person to take full responsibility.

[@chriss4919]

Fiarati Couldn't have said it better. He owned his mistake 100%. Thank god hes okay 🙏

[@AC-hl7pc]

Just glad your friend, you and your sweetheart are ok

[@przemekk.2824]

In every polish aeroclub, somewhere in hangar, there was or even still is, crashed (in a very similar way) wilga. So do not blame yourself so much. And thank you for giving this machine a second life. Especially when the turbine was just a concept, as far as I know. Greetings from Poland and I'm glad nobody was hurt. And plane it's just a thing.

[@a128102]

That’s an honest man right there, and in now way does this make you a poor pilot.

[@boazila]

One of the requirements for qualifying as a legend is accountability. You, sir, are a legend!

[@stevenwg2360]

This.

[@AZJAS]

The plane can be replaced - You Can't ! Thank God you are alright..

[@mdb831]

Absolutely no question about it!

[@Cross75777]

Sorry Mike, I can feel your heartache, but very grateful your alive to rebuild, and be here for your family and friends. God bless you and yours.

[@jimallmon]

Thank God no one was injured. You built Draco once...you can build her again.

[@eriklarson9137]

@2:13 This dude shows why he is so successful. He takes ownership for it, instead of blaming others.

[@chrisrose5503]

I was thinking the exact same thought.

[@bunkie2100]

Jon Doe- My first flight instructor said something I’ll never forget: “I’d rather be judged by twelve than carried by six”

[@lvgeorge]

@@bunkie2100 Very well said on all Points and this should be a lesson to all of us! Never admit Guilt in public and if your tempted to do so, talk first to your Lawyer! Mike P. apparently was past that point and thus sent a lesson to us all!

[@crissd8283]

Wow, I am disappointed with some of these comments saying never admit fault. I understand insurance but we really need more people who take responsibility for their actions and have the buck stops here attitude. Plus, I doubt insurance is going to pay to rebuild that plane. I don't think any insurance will cover such a highly modified plane with so many back country landings.

[@johndouglas9609]

Curt D after watching every video on this channel it seems to me that he most likely doesn’t need to get an insurance check. Dude could afford to put a turboprop in a bush plane. I’m sure he’ll be alright. Hopefully, he does get “back to work” on Draco 2. Looking forward to it.

[@SuperMincraftia]

This is the plane that made me choose to start a education in aviation industry. Real sad to see this.

[@georgebrown3185]

Be happy I bet this ends up saving his life.

[@dwightgailey9940]

Mike, you are an inspiration to me and to many others. The Phoenix will rise. Thank you for publically recognizing, praising and encouraging your wife, your son and your family. To me that is just another insight into your widsom and courage. Do not lose heart, brother. Doc

[@kfstreich4787]

Screw the plane I'm glad it's you telling the story!

[@kfstreich4787]

Were you a marine? Or should I say are you a marine?

[@Kee_Didnt]

Mike, I'm so sorry to hear! RIP Draco, most badass plane EVER.

[@ItAintEz]

I am so glad everyone is alright! I've watched all the build videos and every video on the web with Draco in it. Your genius mind built a game changing STOL aircraft but more importantly, you built a plane that you were all able to survive a crash in. Mission complete. We will all be watching Scrappy take shape and will always have the web to remember Draco. Well done Mike!

[@swagswagswag103]

It's so awesome seeing somebody so passionate about their hobby. Glad you're OK, Mike.

[@glennmiller394]

That's what you call 'Manning up'. Thanks. The world needs more of that.

[@q300SBB]

Glenn Miller Hear, hear...

[@pipercolt1963]

Screw the tower next time. You were right in trying to turn 90 deg. You would have lifted off before the edge. And still could have tracked the runway.

[@MrBrightlight66]

Glad you are OK. You honesty, courage and determination are epic.

[@theoad6997]

We are all sad Draco crashed but happy you are alive n well!

[@Silencer84]

That feeling of wanting to go back 5 minutes and make different choices. So haunting and raw. I even feel it from the parking ticket I just got now. Can't imagine what you experienced . Admire your attitude and self-reflection. Stay strong & flyin'!

[@flyrcnow1715]

Mike you are an absolute genius. You designed, fabricated, and built this plane practically by yourself. You are a motivation to a lot of us with your contagious, always happy attitude. A ton of respect to the guy who we can immediately crawl out of the airplane with his emotions running high and say completely my fault. Glad this bad day only ended up with a broken plane and bruised confidence. Praying that You keep your head up and you get back to work!!

[@alexworks9659]

Draco was an amazing aircraft. Lessons learned, now get back to work!!💪🏽

[@cronk6879]

You are one of the most humble people. Planes can be rebuilt, glad to see every one is ok.

[@trinifranco6942]

Wow... am not even an aviator, but I just loved watching your videos. This sucks, I loved that plane. Glad you’re okay, and can’t wait for the Draco 2!

[@rtwg605]

Keep the pieces. Maybe a static version outside your hanger, if she can’t be rebuilt to fly. But regardless, so glad you, your wife, and your friend are all okay! Even if Draco’s life was short, it was spectacular and so inspiring. Keep flying!

[@christianriera2489]

Second coolest plane ever. Coolest will be your rebuild. Happy you and your wife are alright.

[@garethleitner9547]

Coolest was Orville and Wilbur Wright's.

[@Eli_308]

Christian Riera Sooooo true!!!

[@joshlynch3107]

@@garethleitner9547 rather fly draco lol

[@jimmcewen8446]

Classic Mike. Tell it like it is, no sugar coating here. You may have saved other lives with this video. Thank you.

[@timvanasen6711]

Hi Mike I'm an rc pilot so glad you're okay thankyou for the humility & honesty you're a stand up man...

[@purplemonkeydishwasher9360]

The passion and love that went into building a legend like Draco has not gone unnoticed. Everybody I know in the aviation industry knows what Draco was. Thankfully nobody is hurt. I hope you can rebuild her back to her former glory. The fact that you can admit to the world your error shows what kind of a genuine person you are. I believe you will take something from this and make something even more remarkable. BTW your wife is hilarious I hope her finger nail gets better.

[@CJLeTeff]

Please say you’re going to rebuild Mike! You’re a big man not making excuses, hats off to you my friend, and glad everyone is safe!

[@isbcornbinder]

I am so sorry. I respect your assessment. You are a man of integrity.

[@TheLouisamite]

I'm just glad your still alive,,,,iv been following your videos with draco and I know how much you love your master peace God bless

[@mathieupaul88]

So happy everyone is ok Mike! Hope to see Draco v2.0 in the future! 🛫

[@BakerStudiosIndy]

My condolences, Mike. She was the perfect pilot’s dream girl. Glad you all are okay.

[@jaywatson7451]

That really sucks Mike. I am just glad you guys are ok.

[@CS_247]

Takes a real man to admit he f**ked up big time because he was overconfident. Real respect for this man.

[@spanieaj]

I kind of got choked up when your wife came over and gave you a hug. That is where it is at!

[@mtk51]

I imagine a lot of us did.

[@mulldb]

Amen, Gus

[@melvyncox3361]

Yes,certainly is!

[@dco5055]

That sucks but in the end your still here to build another one.

[@joshuagordon3020]

Thank goodness you are all alright! I'm so incredibly sad for you Mike. You're always so generous with your time and you seem like a genuinely nice and cool guy. Totally sucks this happened to you. I sure will miss seeing Draco fly. BACK TO WORK!

[@WoodstaS]

This is a great lesson for me, not just from an aviation perspective, but life in general. You realized you made a huge mistake and owned it 100% instead of feeling ashamed or guilty and defensive, and that kept you in the left seat through the whole situation. Your attitude through this has had a big impact on me, and I’m sure it will have one on many others, if they will pay attention to the wisdom being shared.

[@r.gibson1080]

Planes can be replaced. I'm glad you and your family are OK!

[@jorgemancuso1315]

“ It has just been my error : back to work” I just can’t admire this man enough,what a lesson of what life is about...

[@ramosel]

Man, so sorry. Glad this was a "walk away" for you!

[@SabbaticusRex]

Never watched you before now , and as heartbroken as you are I already know you are the sort of man who isn't grounded by disaster but are propelled to new heights by it. Man , you taking responsibility like this sends out a wave of integrity that will inspire anyone watching. Best of luck in the future and glad everyone is safe. Draco sure was gorgeous I look forward to what is next Mr. Patey.

[@MikePatey]

Thank you so much, I appreciate your comment. It was a painful day for many reasons, but I’m most grateful we weren’t harmed. I’ll be building a new “Draco X” soon when I’m done with my current project. Check out my “Scrappy” build. Onward and upward. 🤠

[@rhondohslade]

@@MikePatey I found you this evening when You Tube suggested one of your Scrappy videos. I loved it, watched several more episodes, then this one. You are an inspirational man and I would love to meet you some day. Best of luck to you and everyone.

[@MikePatey]

@@rhondohslade Thank you for expressing that and glad you are here!

[@anthonyhitchings1051]

Thanks for being up front about all this - sign of a true man

[@Sammy-it7qj]

Gosh! Mate, really feel for you and glad you’re ok and safe. That’s the main thing. God bless

[@c172flyer]

Mad respect. Took responsibility and gave us some sage lesson learned advice.

[@flyinokie]

Can't believe I'm just now hearing about this. It was an awesome plane, but not as awesome as your humbleness and attitude. Sorry for the loss of Draco. Thanks for being a great example.

[@WesFarms]

Glad you’re ok! I admire your honesty. It takes a real man to own his mistakes!

[@praetoriv]

Glad to know everyone is OK. Planes can be replaced, people can not.

[@scruffy9836]

Sad to see Draco crashing, glad to see that you guys are ok. Thanks for you honesty mike.

[@theitineranthistorian2024]

Taking responsibility it's getting rarer and rarer thanks I feel your pain

[@theOneRizzolliMick]

Man, my heart dropped the moment I saw the video in my feed. But thanks God you're OK. What a sad story, but I'm sure it'll serve you as motivation and soon the mighty Draco will be high in the sky again. I wish you all the best!

[@ponchoruben]

Mike, it's a shame the loss of Draco, however, Draco was just an excuse to continue seeing an example of who you are, your dedication to your family, business and aviation is what motivates us all. You have made many lives better, including mine. Thank God everyone is fine. Congratulations on that way of reacting to the accident, it is good to not make mistakes, but it is bigger who makes them and recognizes them. You are an example to follow completely. Here we are all who follow you to support you in the next project. Regards from Mexico

[@thegiant573]

You are okay! Planes can be rebuilt! Don't beat yourself up that much.

[@SeaniepGdizzle]

I’m so sorry about your accident. Im glad everyone is ok. I learned a lot from it. Stay positive. I can’t wait to see what is next.

[@samualwhittemore228]

Scrappy awaits!!!

[@tropicthndr]

Scrappy won’t be a good name for a plane if it ends up like Draco but it will be appropriate. Time to take off the Superman shirt.

[@MrGaryGG48]

Mike, I so sorry to see your "latest video." I've watched all of your Draco build videos and have them all bookmarked for posterity. I've always been told that the pioneers in most fields are those guys who push the limits and occasionally overstep those limits just a bit. I wonder how many of them have had the strength of character to step up and explain where they made the mistake and how to avoid that error in the future. I'm pretty sure that your wife is very proud of the example you've shown today for your kids and Mark's kids as well. That's a example they will look back on for the rest of their lives. I don't know how you could have handled a situation like that any better. This brings something else to mind... are you sure that Scrappy really needs an 8 cylinder Lycoming? That PT6 would look pretty good up front there!! I'm fairly certain no one has stuffed a turboprop in a Carbon Cub yet but who better than Mike Patey??? ;^)

[@BigO2Thai]

Dude, I just watched this video after watching the video with Trent going over Draco, of the coolest planes I have ever seen. All the patience, work, time and money put into that amazing aircraft. Then, to see you do this unbelievably honest and humbling video right after the crash, when most would be cussing up a storm and making excuses. I must say that I was truly inspiring and you sir, are awesome! My sincere condolences for Draco, but knowing you it's probably repaired and flying again. Just wanted to thank you for the inspiration, integrity and wish you the best! God bless, John. If you need anything from the NE part of OH give me a shout.