The REAL Pilot Mistake That Got Brittney Killed!

[@pilot-debrief]

The Burley airport was warned of safety deficiencies as far back as 2014 (unrelated to the stacks). They lost all federal funding in 2018. There was a LOT of data to cover in this tragedy in such a short video and this is a story that needs to be told. If you want to watch a story about a pilot that made a reckless mistake and killed almost everyone onboard the plane, then click here 👉kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6vXm6yPd9N2pdU

[@AN-nt3uv]

Who approves such buildings next to an airport? There should be general rules and only terrain might make an approach extraordinary, never later added buildings. A aquaintance of mine here in Germany works for air traffic control and they calculate the shadowing caused by new buildings for all the RF related instruments and signal beacons. Sorry for my laymen terms here, but i am just an interested physicist, not a pilot or such. But i assume similar studies are done for the visuals in general. Also, flap position should not impact whether you see an obstacle or not, otherwise you would only safely land with a given range of flaps, that your nose height does not cover those? I might be wrong, but a lot went wrong here leaving a pilot zero room for mistakes.

[@Some571]

I wouldn't trust a woman pilot without an assistant Male pilot. To say she is really flying by herself, but with him only.👏

[@sblack48]

@@Some571i wouldn’t trust you to make an intelligent comment. Gender has nothing to do with competence. She passed her instrument ride and pilot proficiency checks, therefore she demonstrated competence. She isn’t the first pilot male or female with low instrument time to crash in bad weather and this obstacle is poorly marked on the chart, not painted and emitting steam. It is obviously a trap and there will certainly be a multi million $ lawsuit. FAA, the airport, Jeppeson and the company that built the tower will all be dragged in to it. Gender has absolutely nothing to do with it.

[@gabrielgagliano7180]

​@@Some571 I don't get it, what link is it you make between the fact she's a female and her mistakes? Maybe I didn't understand what you said quite well but to me, this has nothing to do with her gender whatsoever... Could happen to any pilot out there with the same amount of experience, I believe Hoover is right about the swiss cheese model, that poor lady was just in the wrong place at the wrong moment with the wrong conditions, period.

[@gabrielgagliano7180]

*Sorry about my English if it's not perfect, I'm french but I hope you get the meaning of what I wrote

[@lmamakos]

This situation is crazy. If you consider the FCC regulations on how high an antenna tower you can build in proximity to an airport, there's no way you could have erected a structure that high. For short runways (less than 3200 feet), there's a 50:1 slope that defines the height of a structure. If the exhaust stack was 2600 feet from the runway, it couldn't have exceeded 52 feet of height above the runway surface. And these stacks are built at twice that height, pretty much exactly off the end of the runway? It's all nuts.

[@tomsetberg4746]

It's because you have two incompetent government agencies competing. EPA requires it to be higher FAA requires it to be lower. So you're in a lose lose situation as the government runs rampant with power.

[@GOAE7777]

@@tomsetberg4746 Ah, yes. EPA trying to reduce the probability of disease by increasing smoke stack height. And FAA trying to increase safety factor by reducing the smoke stack height. Both are incompetent for trying to do their job despite both measurably saving lives. But since both wanted their regulations conflicting enforced, clearly the government is rampant with power and the company should be allowed to do whatever it wants whenever it wants because that must be the third option right? Sometimes people are so stupid they have to be saved from themselves. But sometimes, maybe they just deserve a Darwin award, eh? You're the reason why people are thankful for plagues.

[@nordboya1656]

@@tomsetberg4746 "government runs rampant with power" - but this is about regulatory failure... if we strip all power from government then who is going to implement the correct safety rules on building towers?

[@rc01140]

@@nordboya1656 the invisible hand of the free market, obviously...

[@deevnn]

@@rc01140 Yup...and that's a disaster waiting to happen.

[@riseandshinejp]

Factory is negligent, City is negligent, the position of the stacks leaves an approaching aircraft almost no margin of error to recover from a problem. Never should have been allowed to build those stacks. The fact that the city said the financial benefit was more important (than safety i.e. Brittney's life) is damning and I hope they get sued for millions.

[@klystron22]

The FAA is also negligent in determining no hazard on them as well. Also where is the FAA enforcement on the lack of aviation painting. Not giving the factory a pass here, but that's just another piece as well.

[@alleyratAnderson]

Billions.

[@courtneysmith6082]

THIS!

[@crissd8283]

This is typical for government agencies. The EPA tells you the stacks must be higher and gives you permission too do so. The FAA tells you no. Where I work, the Department of Ecology and the Department of health are always telling us to do opposite things. They seem to be completely unable to communicate with each other.

[@charlescz1974]

The 100’ stack on two Zero approach is completely ridiculous considering the airstrip was there first. If the stacks were that necessary then pay to move the airstrip over! No room for error now

[@wrxsnowman]

Great analysis Hoover! This accident hits very close to home, and as I mentioned on Juans channel. I am Brittney's instrument instructor that had the pleasure of working with her and witness her acheiveing her Instrument Rating. I wanted to thank you for covering Brittney's accident. Your example of the Swiss cheese model in reference to her accident is accurate. She was a FANTASTIC student, and to this day I still brag about how much of a joy she was to teach instrument. Her attention to detail, desire to be the best pilot she could was very evident from day one. Sadly, the chain of events leading to her loss are hard to stomach especially the exhaust stacks and how everything was a perfect storm for this event to happen. I hadn't seen the report that depicted her different airspeeds between the approach and how that could have greatly affected her second approach! What I can confidently say is that while going through her instrument training she was hyper focused on being precise with every approach, landing and maneuver she attempted. Being human does have the propensity to make mistakes, and combined with an approach that should have been discontinued is truly gut wrenching. She's greatly missed, however, I will forever be grateful to have known and had my stamp on her professional pilot career. Fly high Brittney! Thanks Hoover!

[@Anon54387]

Sadly, her attention to detail took a break that day with the tragic results. Note that he said that she mostly stuck to a RELATIVELY constant descent angle which is NOT the same as a constant descent angle. Also, she started that descent 200 feet lower than stated on the chart. That right there meant she would have hit the stack. All the more is that she had been to that airport before.

[@LJ045]

⁠@@Anon54387we all have made mistakes while flying and if they were to happen at a critical time with compounding factors then we would be in a report too. Honestly you’re showing hazardous attitudes - invulnerability. If you can’t see yourself in her seat then you need a reality check. This was the Swiss cheese model to a tee.

[@tomriley5790]

@@Anon54387 As Juan pointed out on his channel the non-precision approach plate for that airport actaully does not have a constant descent rate if you follow it as printed your descent rate has to increase close to the airport.

[@univera1111]

I have heard the both sides but as good as she is a pilot, I think the aviation industry should give margin for error. We are all human. We are never perfect. If you need to be perfect 98% of the time as a pilot as a human, please leave Aviation and piloting to Artificial Intelligence. This is no joke comment. I think it's time to hand over pilot job to AI.

[@LJ045]

@@univera1111 what? A part 121 operation would never fly into that airport with those stacks in the way. This accident can be attributed to corruption or gross negligence within the city, state, and possibly the FAA. They allowed the stacks to be built and weren’t up to code with aviation orange being applied, anti collision lights operating, putting stacks directly on the extended centerline. You don’t need to be perfect 98% of the time you need situational awareness, professionalism, good judgment, and a level head.

[@egec1]

I'm a pilot - so of course I love these videos. But I'm really struck just how well done they are from a production and organization perspective - which make them very easy to watch.

[@ericlewis4674]

I couldn’t agree more. He does a superb job in all respects.

[@favorgracetransportllc6843]

I agree

[@stopatredlights]

We don’t care you say you pilot so lick it.

[@bigdaddyd4jc]

Definitely! I have seen another “analysis” that was total garbage.

[@truthsRsung]

With the rest of the world tossing aside Wise Regulations like Building Codes, and FAA Certifications, any real world perspective is going to stand out. No shade on pilots, aside from the leaded fuel y'all still cling to.

[@Cobra-ky9bt]

I flew into Burley a few years back. Those stacks are no joke.

[@ronlackey2689]

Especially if the steam coming from the stacks is blowing somewhat horizontally towards the pilot and obscuring the stacks. Poor young lady. If she'd made12 landings there like they said she knew the stacks were an issue. I bet a $1000 that steam obscured those stacks.

[@Notfiveo0]

I would never trust myself to fly a plane, therefore I have no dreams of ever becoming a pilot. I know my limitations.

[@tanan616]

​@@ronlackey2689 exactly. You can land "safely" at a runway that you've done hundreds of times before. But even with IFR. You're trusting your "visual-instincts". Especially with the model of the aircraft. You're unable to see clearly what's in front of you.

[@Nottoday454]

I’m a 40yo student pilot and I consider your channel as part of my training. I am so sincerely grateful for your content and for your gracious and professional analysis of these incidents. Thank you for telling Brittany’s story, I will remember her every time I fly. This one got to me. If Brittany’s family reads this I am so sorry for your loss. May God bless you and give you peace

[@doncook2066]

Even with 2200 hour of private pilot flying, I do not fly to minimum in weather. I do not fly single engine at night. Not anymore. I’m debating with myself if watching all these videos scare me or make me a safer pilot. These videos have changed the way I fly and think. Thank you to all the KZbinrs that bring this knowledge today. In the old days all this content was not available due to internet simply not there. Keep your airspeed up and be safe.❤

[@brianfeeney9493]

Single engine Cherokee Six ….. Night, weather, ice …… Choose another day !

[@dontaylor6751]

You have a great attitude toward your flying. Anything that makes you think about what you are doing makes you safer. Know your own limitations and stay within them. Your passengers are counting on you. Don ATP, CFI, CFII, MEI 22,000 hours. I would fly with you anytime.

[@MrGeneralPB]

safer, even if you are scared, being safer due to it keeps your adrenaline pumping and prevents you from making 'generous assumptions' about your piloting abilities and safety

[@benhartart9487]

Fly whenever brah

[@meburman]

@doncook2066. You probably already know this but in the world of 121 and 135 flying pilots usually don't have the option of going or not because of the way they feel about it. Many of us cut our teeth doing things or flying in conditions that we now get to say no to in the plush and comfortable corporate jet or airline flight deck we now regularly fly in. Each pilot must do their own risk assessment and determine their own go/no go choices. Sometimes it is easier and sometimes it isn't. Luckily for 99% of us, the Swiss cheese doesn't line up and we are rewarded with an arrival despite all the signs that we should have chosen differently. In the end, no matter your experience, and no matter what you are flying...when you are in the bathroom all by yourself and you look at yourself in the mirror, if the person looking back at you has a look of terror or doubt in his/her eyes, time to call it for the evening and live to fly another day. Even if the decision is unpopular with others. That is the sign of an aviation professional (PIC)....a person who can say an informed no when others are saying otherwise.

[@evanmitton5007]

Thanks for posting her tragic end of life story,i met her at the SLC airport working as a A&P on the cargo Ramp,she was a good kind ,smart and capable pilot and woman, she is missed 😢peace to her Family.

[@kathrynleaser5093]

So sorry for her loss. Tragic. ..😢

[@supacheef1]

I'm an a&p @ kden (ups) . The ground manager shares SLC and den. He was very shaken up this night. My condolences. We never want to see this, especially these young'ns flying these demanding routes and schedules.

[@mikegmdw1]

What licence did she have and how many hours?

[@kristi1949]

​@@mikegmdw1Watch the video. It's clearly stated.

[@bricaaron3978]

@@kristi1949 Then why do so many people seem to completely ignore that information?

[@matthewconrad4728]

I’m not a pilot but I’m a huge air craft enthusiast. I love your debriefs. You spare no details while remaining unbiased. Keep up the good work. My heart goes out to all Brittany’s loved ones and family. May future innovations provide safer skies and less accidents in the future.

[@DimSimSam]

This is one of the saddest debrief stories I’ve seen. My thoughts and well wishes are with the family.

[@kevinfraser573]

I hope the family loses the lawsuit. NTSB concluded pilot error. Can you read?

[@MrCubflyer]

NTSB couldnt fined their ass with two hands and a flashlight.

[@Catpanl]

Why is this more sad than any other pilot death because this is an attractive female case? She made a mistake and only she paid for it. In many other cases people on the plane who had nothing to do with the situation ended up getting killed, that’s the sad part to me.

[@ricksmall3587]

@@kevinfraser573 The NTSB is always right? Can you think?

[@seaskimmer9071]

@@Catpanl There is NO empirical evidence that proves "she made a mistake". And (curb your misogyny) her physical appearance has nothing to do with it; those stacks should never have been there. You're right about there being no one else involved, so keep the oranges out of the apples.

[@d3et1roi3t]

How could they allow stacks like that next to an airport. Someone dropped the ball, several times. Having to fly thru a steam cloud just sounds negligent.

[@Ea-Nasir_Copper_Co]

@@ljviks22No, it wasn't.

[@michaelinners5421]

​@@ljviks22 Did you even watch the video? Or are you shilling for the city/plant?

[@mikewaterfield3599]

Because cities encroach on airports. Half the airfields in my state have that problem. Still fly the approach and it’s not an issue. Pvt students stick approaches at an 1800x30’ strip with 70’ trees off the approach on a regular basis. 2W2 is considered practice, not unsafe.

[@chrislovett6120]

@@Ea-Nasir_Copper_Coremind me again who was flying the plane?

[@d3et1roi3t]

@@ljviks22 Margin of error is 98 feet.

[@cadoo5591]

I know absolutely nothing about flying an aircraft but your videos are so well explained that even I can make sense of them. Thanks

[@rogermarine1443]

The FAA said it was a hazard and magically said it is no longer a hazard after they increased the height of the stacks. That company, the city and FAA should have never allowed those stacks to be built in the path of the runway. This is insane.

[@JapanesePiano1]

Just more government corruption.

[@TravisHi_YT]

Sounds like someone got a nice pay day by overlooking it.

[@user-ew3kw6cp3h]

The tax base of the company supersedes any form of safety or lives. Someone needs a good attorney.

[@marcosfontalvo1729]

Corruption

[@michaelwright2986]

Is corporate manslaughter a thing in the USA?

[@mikehanks1399]

One truth I have noticed with almost all of your debriefs, and with other videos like yours, is that it doesn't take much of an error to kill yourself (and others) in an airplane. They are rather unforgiving machines as the recent deaths of some very experienced and highly skilled aviators have proven. As always, you gave an excellent analysis.

[@samkelomambisa1897]

Yeah. A mundane failure on a car, boat, is more of an inconvenience. If it's mechanical or there's mist or something and you can't see, pull over to the side. Switch off engine, call someone or wait for the weather to get better. Same thing on an aircraft, you're out luck. Dead because of some minor oversight or mistake. Very unforgiving.

[@ronaldlindeman6136]

@@samkelomambisa1897 I'm not doing caving, wingsuit flying, hiking, scuba diving, mountain climbing, motorcycling, flying an airplane or even taking a selfie. It's all to dangerous.

[@c1d2e]

There's a famous poster in almost every small airport office showing a crumpled WW1 biplane stuck in a lone tree, the caption reads. “Aviation in itself is not inherently dangerous. But to an even greater degree than the sea, it is terribly unforgiving of any carelessness, incapacity or neglect.” Captain A. G. Lamplugh, British Aviation Insurance Group, London. c. early 1930's.

[@nukedaddy]

As pointed out in the video, 12 precursors had to line up for this particular accident to occur. Yes it's very dangerous because when number 12 is set in place, you don't just pull over to the side of the road. However, it's all very preventable. 99% of what Hoover covers is pilot error...and usually it's several errors, not just one little mistake.

[@mrwp819300]

Well how many people take for granted driving their cars to work, the grocery store or on a trip? Do any of them really stop and actually think it's dangerous and can actually be fatal before doing so? I think not. In a tiny part of the back of peoples' minds there is the knowledge of the danger but it's dismissed because it always "happens to other people". I think with pilots it's many times the same. Simply routine. But your point about the extreme danger of flying, I believe, is valid and I also believe ot should be drilled into every pilot's training at the beginning, middle and end of EVERY lesson during training and again during any recertification. The word mundane was used in a comment above and that word should NEVER be associated with flying, IMO.

[@justanotherchad9554]

Holy smokes, I can't believe you did one about Brittany! I love this family. I hurt for them. Her late brother was one of my best friends. May she and her family find peace in her rest.

[@speedfinder1]

Thanks for posting, this was an accident waiting to happen by all accounts I've read on the internet. Local to me, about 10 to 15 years ago, our local Government bought up everything, (Houses, factories, farms etc, ) within 1/2 a mile to 1 mile from our airfield and removed it from the landscape. They demolished houses, trees, windmills, flagpoles and everything else taller than 10 feet high, to prevent just this sort of tragedy. The lives of the pilots, passengers and crew, to them was more important than making a profit.

[@mikehaberski4596]

@speedfinder1 im shure there were deeper pockets making this happen for what reason you will not know till its too late but i bet it has nothing to do with making the friendly skys safer for dumb pilots that dont pay attention

[@Caduceus88]

@@mikehaberski4596Pretty ignorant statement, you must not be a pilot, if you are, that statement is also arrogant.

[@stellviahohenheim]

​@@Caduceus88Yeah! Get em boah

[@quantumjet253]

@@mikehaberski4596 "dumb pilots that don't (yeah, I've corrected that for you seeing as education failed you!) pay attention"... are you f***ing kidding!? Everyone makes mistakes all the time. You can't write a sentence without several errors so you should understand this more than most. I think it's disgusting (well, let's be honest, you're incredibly immature) to suggest an error that cost someone their life makes them 'dumb'.

[@Dan-di9jd]

Assuming if this is in the USA, I don't buy this story at all. I'm a guy who actually had his land taken by Eminent Domain laws and I don't believe this story for a few reasons. For one, a government can't just take over property without just compensation and that is going to depend on a lot of factors such as how long the property been there and how long it's been used for. Second, the government can't take over land without city council approval and within the state laws. It's very doubtful property owners would just give up their land and not go to city council to fight for it. Also, every owner has a right to take contest it in courts and it would take decades if not longer to acquire all said properties. I fought for my land rights back and ultimately won after nearly 3 years of court fighting.

[@lorettavanhaasteren2776]

This story reminds me of the Florida vet and his wife who hit a pine tree on approach to RDU--you did an excellent debrief on that sad event. The state park pine tree had good reason to be there but that smoke stack absolutely did not! Shame on that company and the city who approved its height and location! 😡😢🤯

[@SteveKasian]

...and the FAA for approving its height and location, as well!

[@J.T.Engineering]

Thank you so much for putting this video together. I personally knew Brittney from flight school at Utah State. Its so heartbreaking to lose a fellow aviator and friend. She really was one of the most driven, and kind people I knew while flight training. She was loved and will be missed. Stay safe out there guys.

[@drjones762]

This is just sick. The whole thing was completely and totally avoidable on all sides. For what little its worth; from her pictures I sense she is a vibrant, beautiful & wonderful girl and it’s an absolute travesty what happened. You are blessed to have known her.❤ 😭

[@GODSWORD11]

@@drjones762she was a terrible pilot and I heard that she flew intoxicated more than once 😡

[@jimiemick]

⁠@@GODSWORD11hopefully you arnt just posting bullshit. No need to write those sorts of accusations about someone who isn’t around defend them self.

[@GODSWORD11]

@@jimiemick I’m not, and watch your mouth..

[@GODSWORD11]

@@jimiemick FACTS ARE FACTS, alive or not..

[@d.b.1176]

“It isn’t dangerous because it will make us money” 🙄

[@charlesterrizzi8311]

A pretty damning statement

[@yotonbbatsles7942]

@@charlesterrizzi8311😂

[@Zachhatesyoutube]

A statement like that gets my lawyer all excited

[@yourworstnightmare5902]

WTF!!!!!!!

[@danepatterson8107]

Non-violent sociopaths who love money (more than all other things) now control society. They don't run governments. They buy governments.

[@gomini3707]

The only mistake I see is some state employees greenlit the building of IRON BARS 100 FT HIGH in the immediate vicinity of an airport. This is pure lunacy and all the culprits should get at least some jail sentence, extra to the compensation of the family

[@z135210]

How far are the stacks from the airport?

[@krummja4823]

@@z135210 If only there was some way of getting this information, like a breakdown video that goes into meticulous detail...

[@IvanskiYakinovski]

The crazy thing is that there is a Samsung plant being build next to an untowered airport about 1.5 miles from the end of the runway. The stacks easily would obstruct your path if you were to extend your downwind leg before turning base. This location is FREQUENTLY used by student pilots from multiple flight schools and just the cranes alone give me anxiety

[@Ethan-fh9lq]

@@z135210 They are apx. 0.5 miles from the runway.

[@3rett115]

I know the stacks are a huge problem, but not sure why everyone is choosing to ignore the fact that she basically lost control of the airplane. She dove at least 1500 ft/mn in the last thousand feet when she was well above the steam plumes. Her AOA was extremely high in both videos, so she was either tail heavy or too slow or both. ADSB says she was doing around 80 kts with no flaps, but her IAS was likely lower. My thoughts are she got too slow, and maybe distracted by the missed procedure, that she forgot to lower flaps which caused her to sink real fast at the edge of a stall at the exact worst time. This was pilot error sadly, but the stacks being there certainly make the margin for error unreasonable in actual minimums. If she would've kept her speed up and used flaps, she'd certainly still be alive.

[@MJBclassics]

I don't fly planes or even know how I found you, but I've been watching you're videos for a week straight. You tell the stories so well.

[@-Jethro-]

FAA: 70’ stacks: ☠️ 100’ stacks: 👍

[@Chishannicon]

"Nah, see but, it's cool now cuz they're painted! ...They ARE painted, right? RIGHT???" - Some FAA guy, probably

[@mikeall7012]

They must have used the Boeing response model on this one.

[@Sam590ss]

FAA: How much you willing to pay?

[@Civ33]

guarantee you money was involved in that "everything is fine" assessment

[@Larry-yb7zl]

EPA declares victory over the FAA. Originally FAA claimed raising towers to 60 was hazard to aviation when design was proposed at 60. EPA said they need to go even higher to help emissions. Company says ok and redesigned the stacks to 100 to satisfy EPA, ignoring FAA. EPA blessed the new design, then FAA magically blessed 100 if they are painted and lit. Paint or those cheesy lights would not have mattered as the steam being expelled on this day is similar to zero/zero visibility in fog. Something caused FAA to back down. Suppose EPA carries higher weight in govt decisions than the FAA does. Pecking order of our government on display, unfortunately to the demise of an aviator.

[@ScottPlude]

I am a pilot, but haven't flown in years. That phase of my life has passed. The knowledge that you have has no limits and I enjoy your method of explaining everything about the incidents. You always show the incident from many angles and it really helps all pilots become better. I believe pilots should find an opportunity to learn SOMETHING from every flight, even if it's just "why am I always 5 feet left of centerline when I land???" Thanks Hoover, you make this world a better/safer place with your efforts and I am sure non-pilots find your content entertaining as well.

[@linanicolia1363]

same here. I agree.

[@albatross8]

Take out a life insurance policy just in case you both get the urge to fly again!! 🎉😂😂😂😂

[@rrocketman]

You got to get up there again mate 👍

[@Midniteattack]

woah. Today I learned always being 5' left of center is super common and an easy fix: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5SZk2qnhKqkrNk. Gonna go work on that tomorrow! Thanks @ScottPlude.

[@dabneyoffermein595]

What type of planes have you flown?

[@johnleech1366]

I flew B-52s from 1977-2004. You are an amazing pilot debriefer. Keep up the great work and thank you for your service.

[@linwoodkent1246]

@johnleech1366 Hi my name is Linda Marie, in 1965 while living on Guam MI, I took a senior high school field trip to Andersen AFB, and stood just inside a B-52 cockpit. I was agast at what I saw, hundreds of dials,gauges everywhere even on the ceiling and the sides of the cockpit were covered with some kind of instruments except on the windshield. You must be a genious to have flown one of these. We we were not allowed in the back of the plane. The outside was so huge I couldn't understand how it could fly. I congratulate you for having the exceptional brain power it must take to fly such a machine, also I thank you for your service to our country, Big Hug from Linda

[@courtneysmith6082]

And let’s make sure the stacks are gray so they blend perfectly with the snow. Great plan.

[@billymacktexasdetective5827]

Where I live, snow is white. Where is this gray snow you speak of?

[@kendallevans4079]

@@billymacktexasdetective5827 How about painting them bright RED! Do you have red snow? You know what his point was but you couldn't stand not to chip in with a senseless comment....happy now?

[@dilwyn1]

@@kendallevans4079 Well said!!

[@russell-di8js]

The chimneys weren't moving or hiding 2nd time round were they?

[@daffidavit]

@@billymacktexasdetective5827 He said "blend" not "match".

[@cturdo]

Moving operations to Twin Falls would have avoided this ridiculous approach issue. The whole existence of the stacks and lack of services at the airport should have eliminated this as a destination.

[@daszieher]

and have another landing field closed. The stacks should have never been built.

[@RichardQuaid]

Not being greedy would have avoided this. It happens too often. People with money never seem to have enough, and don't care about anything but getting more. What's a few lives, really?

[@cturdo]

@@daszieher The company can choose where to operate, and getting a cheap base there cost them a plane and crew.

[@danepatterson8107]

I didn't even stop to consider that, honestly: that's a great point. I think those stacks were inevitably going to down an AC.

[@d0wnboy]

@@RichardQuaidExplain.

[@CaseyAlbert844]

I came upon your channel a few months ago by accident and this is only the third episode I have watched. I was Naval Aviator, and then spent 31 years at FedEx plying the trade prior to retiring. I greatly appreciate your extreme professionalism in describing these incidents! IMHO…. In this case, with the flaps up(accidentally), and the low airspeed led to the nose high attitude while descending from the clouds, likely resulting in a “feeling” of being higher than she wanted to be, likely causing her to increase her rate of descent to get to a place where the “visual” view matched what she wanted to see. Thank you again for your professional presentations Hoover! Your site should be required viewing for pilots!

[@TheBelrick]

A lot of simps on this channel. She should not have been flying. That approach was incredibly low , this accident was 100% pilot error.

[@Kyrichenko]

general nakon bitke...

[@smithnyiu]

If I'm the pilot in those conditions I'm thinking the stacks possess a greater risk than landing downwind on a 4700ft runway (or diverting). Obstacles near a runway are a huge risk when you're low and slow.

[@beefjezos2713]

Im going to guess that you aren’t a commercial pilot. Diverting because you aren’t confident enough to fly a published instrument approach is not acceptable. Not blaming Brittney at all but your statement is ridiculous.

[@synupps877]

​@@beefjezos2713 The video said pilots divert from that airport.

[@giggiddy]

Kinda stinky

[@paulis7319]

As commercial pilots we often get so used to certain sketchy airfields that we just fly in like normal every time. If you'd flown the instrument approach into there 12 times already, you'd naturally be comfortable with it and not divert. This really was a freak accident that could've happened to anyone. It's the result of a company that prioritizes money over human life, combined with a pilot who made a "tiny" mistake at the worst possible moment.

[@paulis7319]

@@beefjezos2713 Pilots can get in trouble for diverting. Pilots can get killed for not diverting. Choose your poison.

[@Phaedrus5015]

I am not a pilot, but have found your channel fascinating and my knowledge of the stresses that pilots encounter during flight has increased dramatically. Thank you!

[@johnnylaw348]

Hoover, I’m not a pilot, but rather a police officer and avid motorcyclist. I want to give you kudos on your ability to make informational, educational, and professional KZbin content. I’ve been watching your videos at the gym as do my cardio on the treadmill. You are a true example of quality in social media, which unfortunately is rare these days. Thank you for being a valued content creator.

[@thengine7]

ACAB

[@usmcmsgt5487]

Good to know you keep up with your fitness. I've seen way to many overweight law enforcement officers. Should have a physical fitness test every year base on age and have a weight requirement per age and height. Like the Marines.... you get a certain amount of chances to pass and get to regulation, if you don't make the cut you get discharge from the Marines. Chasing people on foot requires physical fitness.

[@GuyFromSC]

Nobody has better explained the main factors while also pointing the emphasis in the right directions. This could be a 3 hour debrief, however, the fact the exhaust from the stacks can cause turbulence and/or temporary loss but was still approved on an approach like this is beyond my comprehension. Striped painted with a light or not. Why should any such man-made obstruction be anywhere remotely close to this glide path. There has to more of a margin than 100’ when you’re anywhere close to DMMS. RIP Brittney, a gorgeous woman an even more beautiful soul. May this tragedy continue to offer us education for all parties so that we can all be better. Great job covering this Hoover, love ya buddy. 🙏🏼

[@GentlyUsedOreos]

Was living in Twin Falls when this occurred, & and I have been curious as to what happened! Thank you for the information.

[@leeandadaelliott]

I used to be a pilot. I recently counted the number of times my stupidity nearly got me killed. Six. The final one involved a crash with the company plane into Mrs. Higgins back yard. I was bloodied but walked away. The insurance paid the company $40,000 for a $25,000 airplane so my sins were forgiven. Anyway, I concluded my lucky streak had to be nearing the end, so I gave it up.

[@Horatio-Monroe]

What happened to Mrs. Higgins back yard?

[@tomjones2348]

Superb presentation, Hoover. My wife and I appreciate all the work you put into researching, writing and editing these videos. Very edifying.

[@ambulancekidd]

As a casual aviation fan, I really enjoy your videos. I was an EMT for 30yrs & attended quite a few aviation incidents. My friend was an air traffic controller, so I used to get access to the control tower at Prestwick. So your videos are of great interest to me. RIP this pilot. 😢

[@yabman1317]

Great analysis. 60 years ago I was born in Burley and lived there 18 years. They've been trying to relocate that airport for over 20 years, but Idaho Aviation Authority rules have made it an exercise in frustration. Please note that the processing plant is in a different city than the airport. Plant is in HEYBURN, ID and airport is across the river in BURLEY, ID. These cities are also in different counties. Idaho airport authority rules allow three or more counties to join together to form an airport authority, but Cassia and Minidoka counties do not have another adjoining county that does not already have an airport The city of Burley, supported by the two counties, tried to introduce legislation three years ago that would have allowed the two counties to join together to form an airport authority taxing district, after it was approved by voters. Legislation changes must be made to allow the exception and let the two counties move the airport to a much safer location that was selected long ago. The loss of life of this young woman was tragic and avoidable. There is plenty of blame to go around, and plenty of heartache too.

[@johnmagnin5797]

I watch many mainstream KZbin flying videos, and while some of the "experts" give their opinions about how and why accidents occur, yours is the most thorough. Thank you, and keep up the good and valuable work!

[@jdavis7119]

I have flown several thousand feet, straight and level in cruise, over the steam cloud & cooling towers of a power plant on Lake Erie many years ago in a PA-12, well clear of the steam plume and it rocked my world. It was crazy how much turbulence the updraft from those towers caused. Granted a power plant is producing much more heat than those stacks did, but I am willing to bet that between the stacks being obscured by steam, and the disruption to the air with no flaps at such a slow speed played a very significant role in her accident.

[@PirateAndArmadaCo]

She was also in light snow and icing conditions. The temp differential here is MUCH higher than it would be on a "normal" day, I can imagine she dropped several times due to that plume. I know it will never replace their daughter, but I hope the parents run that company into the ground for endangering every pilot to fly there. FAA should have never cleared the increase and an investigation into who approved the 30ft increase is okay "because they're painted" should be done, especially since here we are years later and they clearly never followed up.

[@VladimirPutinSaysHello]

16:40 who in their right mind puts a huge exhaust stacks in the front of a runway for Christ's sakes I hope she wins a lawsuit poor girl

[@tin2001]

And how many people were involved that could have said something, but just didn't?

[@mediocreman2]

The EPA, that's who

[@MrGeorgesc007]

Let's not blame the stack now.

[@regwatson2017]

How many people don't crash into those stacks ?

[@abdulmismail]

Most, if not all, of these debriefs are heart breaking... but I cannot for the life of me understand why the city would allow *anything* to be build on the approach path and not simply offset the plant to the left or right.

[@loca8048]

$$$$$ All about the Benjamins.

[@chrishaugh1655]

Small town in the middle of nowhere Idaho. Pretty easy to understand why they decided to allow it if it brings in money to their town.

[@quantomic1106]

Because they would cost money.

[@mannythehunter]

Lots of problems. He missed this part it's technically 2 towns!! The city lost funding for the airport. Britney was a great person and her dad will own that processing plant when he's done!

[@drjones762]

@@chrishaugh1655Small towns have lots of space to relocate stuff.

[@isturma]

Thanks for sharing this sad tale - The only thing missing from this excellent debrief is a penalty from the FAA for not complying with the measures to make the stacks safe, and whatever pencil-pusher decided that 70ft stacks would be a hazard, but 100 ft stacks is a-ok. The FAA does do a thankless service, but they don't deserve thanks for indirectly causing a young woman to lose her life. I hope that all of the extra profit is sued out of them.

[@sambolivar167]

FAA criminal corruption (some kind of backroom deal), and also city and industry (the industrial plant with the stacks) corruption. So lots of people to sue here but the FAA is prob the most serious and cuppable because it's their job to make it safe and it was such a blatant corrupt decision. Should be a criminal investigation of FAA and of who pushed through that decision. Why there hasn't and probably won't be? Corruption in whatever body is responsible for that too. So much cold-blooded corruption in AmericA it's a wonder it doesn't cause far more deaths. Oh wait I forgot about the plandemic, and the endless wars both deliberate mass-murder. Not to mention all the other mass murders like fake HIV etc etc etc.

[@PaulHockey-yu8fe]

I love the way you present the facts. This is such an interesting and informative place to learn from, thank you Pilot Debrief.

[@SM-if4nz]

Best analysis i have seen by all the KZbin channels who have covered this accident. You are definitely a step above and much more clear and precise and easier to understand in your explanation. Thank you.

[@Shannon-f8w]

Those stacks seem like a booby trap just waiting for someone to slip up on their approach. Surely there's a long list of close calls. Absolute insanity they were allowed to be built and stay.

[@Catpanl]

But that’s the purpose of following an approach plate as if your life depends on it because it does. In other airports, it’s trees or mountains or any number of other things getting low on an instrument approach is essentially chancing death.

[@kamakaziozzie3038]

@@Catpanlmakes sense. Did the approach plate call out the stacks and correct minimums in that area?

[@lnewton3677]

Why did she throw the first approach away? Looked viable and accurate

[@gomini3707]

Trees and mountains are natural. 100 ft high iron bars puffing cloud of steam are artificial. Pilots already have enough hoops to jump through Plus...The stench or corruption is pervasive in this case

[@mrwp819300]

​@@gomini3707Agree!

[@gordorjohnson]

25 years ago I was a 30 year old commuter turboprop Captain and like you said, "wrong time, wrong place". This could have happened to anybody.

[@chrisrobbins2632]

The "wrong place, wrong time" comment was stupid when Hoover said it and it's just as stupid when you say it. What's stupid is a city letting a factory build 100' tall smoke stacks in the direct approach path of an airport.

[@HighOctane-wo6cm]

@@chrisrobbins2632 Exactly… the “wrong place wrong time” scenario occurred back in 2016 when they built these stacks on that factory

[@bricaaron3978]

@@chrisrobbins2632 Why had no crash ever occurred before, in thousands and thousands of landings?

[@arottie4097]

@@GODSWORD11 @GODSWORD11 Thats your A$$/opinion! Everybody has one!! Some are just way too big, son!

[@Ka_Gg]

@@GODSWORD11 Why would her family have to pay for anything. Let's say you were right and the girl was completely negligent and caused all the damage. Why would someone else have to pay for that? That's like punishing the child for the sins of the father.

[@Sebastopolmark]

Thanks Hoover. All of your "debriefs" are well presented, fact driven and non biased! !! !!!

[@golfdoc1950]

I hope the family wins the lawsuit. It won’t bring her back but the company and city need to be held accountable.

[@edwardcat5247]

except no actual person is ever held accountable, they all continue working... some vague concept of "a city" (??) is accountable.... and the taxed people pay... and no lessons are learnt... and it happens again in a coupleyears

[@RadioRich100]

No the pilot does.

[@nitro2199]

@@edwardcat5247 This actually is how lessons are learned. Regulations are written in blood.

[@NoWr2Run]

@@edwardcat5247 Just like Cops, never held accountable & the Citizens pay not the Cop.

[@fentresshill3990]

Hindsight is 20/20. Pilot error of flying the Burley Municipal Airport approach too low. Thousands of pilots before this fatal crash apparently had no problem.

[@riverwildcat1]

Very sad and tragic. A major contributing factor was inadequate warning lights, which were placed where steam could obscure them. How expensive would it have been to have extra strobe lights placed from forty to ninety feet up the stacks? Better lights don't burn out for years at a time. The cost benefit ratio is huge. Excellent video, Hoover. You're the best at this.

[@z135210]

There were lights if you watched the video. And she was below the lowest glide slope and entirely her fault she crashed. She was so low and descending so fast she was going to hit the giant river that exists between the stacks and the runways start.

[@JimNortonsAlcoholism]

​@@z135210that's not what the data shows

[@thengine7]

@@z135210 Notice everyone is quiet on that fact? Massive descent rate that was glossed over by hoover. She failed as a pilot. End of story. Normally hoover destroys other pilot's failures. Wonder what is different this time?

[@z135210]

@@thengine7 simping

[@shadowscall7758]

@@thengine7 Because the massive descent rate was caused by the impending stall that the steam caused. She either had to let it stall or recover (which means nosing down, which increases the descent rate).

[@Jeffrey-817]

Breaks my heart. I am so sorry for her parents. I lost a dear friend in 1994 from similar situations near KC International Airport. Still in grief this many years later.

[@philo5096]

Dude, all your vids are sad as hell. But we learn a ton of stuff. You and this other guy Juan are the best. Keep them coming, cuz I want to keep learning. Thanx.

[@tinkertailor7385]

Yeah, makes sense. Slower approach, bit of turbulence from the steam, the stall horn sounds. She automatically lowers the nose as per training.... and plowed straight into the stacks. It's a stupid place to be putting up obstructions when an existing runway exists. It killed her.

[@rustybpot]

Thanks

[@charlesmclean9089]

This is a tragic situation, and it's important to note that it was not due to a pilot error. The person responsible for approving the smokestack construction in line with the approach end of a runway should have exercised better judgment. To make matters worse, the smokestacks are painted gray, making them almost invisible on a snow-covered day. My heart goes out to Brittney. The smokestacks should not have been there in the first place, and if there were no alternative, they should have been well-lit like a Christmas tree and painted according to safety requirements.

[@igclapp]

According to the NTSB final report, one of the causes of the accident was pilot error (not maintaining altitude on an instrument approach). But certainly there was very little room for error built into that approach and the NTSB also faulted the plant for not painting the stacks.

[@stratocasterblue]

@@igclapp Why didn't the NTSB also fault the company for not lighting them up and just obviously putting them in line with the runway in the first place the runway was there first.

[@igclapp]

@@stratocasterblue I'll paste the probable cause from the NTSB final report below. I don't think lighting was mentioned in the probable cause because it was daytime when the accident happened. The NTSB didn't place blame on the plant for putting the stacks in the way because technically the FAA was aware of the height of the stacks and considered that when they published the approach. It would have been a different matter if the FAA had previously told the plant to lower the height of the stacks. All the FAA wanted them to do was paint the stacks. The height wasn't objected to by the FAA. "PROBABLE CAUSE: The pilot’s failure to maintain altitude during an instrument approach, which resulted in a descent below the approach path and impact with a vent stack. Also causal was the failure of the processing plant to correctly paint the vent stacks, which had been determined by the FAA to be a hazard to navigation due to their proximity to the landing approach path. Contributing to the accident was the likely distraction/illusion/obscuration created by steam from the processing plant, which intermittently obscured the runway."

[@angelarich8455]

No blinking lights on stacks?

[@babygrrlpc5057]

Thanks Hoover. Too bad bureaucrats with the power to set mandates don’t take the responsibility for making sure they’re followed. And shame on that plant for not recognizing that pilots sometimes are unable to walk the fine line that keeps them safe when you fall down on your responsibility. The cost of a few cans of paint was so prohibitive…really? I hope her parents get the right resolution. How hard would it have been to plan this building so the stacks were oriented OUT of alignment with the flight path? It seems so simple.

[@HomesickforAlaska]

​@Lookup2Wakeup Or not approve that plant in the flight path in such close proximity to an already EXISTING runway.

[@ChadDidNothingWrong]

For real whoever was running the factory was an ass. Dan Gryder found the light from the stack leftover on-site by the FAA....and it looked like about 5 watts. Also the light was a dim orange not Red🔴

[@RadioRich100]

Simple? You go paint that stack. A few cans of paint? You think a crew of painters working a job like that is free?

[@ramonmoreno8014]

@@RadioRich100 how much?

[@neiladlington950]

Haven't you heard, regulators and regulations are bad... for business.

[@michaelmcw111]

I'm not a pilot nor in aviation, but when I see a new Pilot Debrief, I click as quick as I can. The level of professionalism, quality of detail, level of compassion make this one of KZbins best content . God Bless 🙏

[@GODSWORD11]

Thank you son 🙌

[@psjasker]

The real mistake was believing that the FAA is still a competent government agency. It has not been since 2000; people should be fired for allowing an approach with hazards like that in the glide path!

[@ninedaysjane2466]

It wasn't a competent agency then. It wasn't in the 90s, 80s, or 70s. It's called the Tombstone Agency for a reason.

[@truthsRsung]

@psjasker ... Why do you feel compelled to use "competent government agency" in anything but a Joke? Not one "official" in this case has Public Safety in mind, piling it on heaps of other similar examples.

[@Bakes-z4c]

Not even mentioning the Boeing stuff ups

[@Tugela60]

The real mistake was believing that the psjasker is still a competent youtube commenter. It has not been since 2000; people should be fired for allowing a post with hazards like that in the video comment path! 😂

[@Rdctd6969]

The real mistake is believing that literally any agency or the government is competent. And that's by design.

[@loca8048]

Money > Humans. Always. All my sympathies to her family and friends for their loss.

[@barbarachambers7974]

Tombstone economics....

[@z135210]

How far are the stacks from the airport?

[@barbarachambers7974]

@@z135210 it looks less than a mile to me.

[@z135210]

@@barbarachambers7974 She was descending too fast and if she didn't hit the stacks she would've landed in the river. Has nothing to do with the stacks. She was hundreds of feet too low.

[@rixxy9204]

​@@z135210she really wasn't. Watch the video again

[@penrynbigbird]

I was a avid hang glider pilot for 49 years, earning my master rating in 1984, retiring in 2023. I find the information/accidents featured on the Pilot Debrief very interesting and educating since pilot error is pilot error no matter what you may be flying. Thanks for providing an excellent channel for pilots to learn from the mistakes/near misses of others.

[@bitterspice5525]

Well said

[@geraldnostrand8100]

Excellent analysis and presentation. It's a tragedy that money, incompetence, and failure to comply with regulations combined to cause this accident and the death of this pilot.

[@poc329]

Unbelievable they would build these obstructions on an approach to a runway. RIP

[@z135210]

How far are the stacks from the runway?

[@GuamanianHarmonLoop]

Thanks!

[@dennism8346]

So...everyone involved knew the stacks are a problem.

[@Dub636]

I’ve flown in and out of KBYI a handful of times. Those smoke stacks are in a terrible place. I understand if a perfect glide slope is flown everything is fine but there is so little room for error. Take off performance can be rough in high density altitude trying to clear those as well

[@recoilrob324]

After overflying the runway and seeing it snow covered....it looks like she was trying to put it down right at the threshold giving as much room as possible to stop. Combined with the steam cloud all margins were removed and she sunk into the stack. Not understanding why no flaps though? Task saturation? RIP Brittney.

[@bryanb6931]

My question is, are obstacles like the stacks a problem for highly experienced pilots?

[@RadioRich100]

She was a bad pilot end of story.

[@Dub636]

@@bryanb6931 what do we consider highly experienced?

[@Dub636]

@@RadioRich100 what makes a bad pilot? Does a good pilot never make a mistake?

[@davidbirdwell8953]

Very informative and helpful. I’m close to finishing up my Instrument training and it really hits home when you can learn from real life or death experiences. Shared with my DPE for the next lunch run conversation.

[@AndreA-ke2id]

What on earth is the madness that allows tall structures to be built close to a runway and directly in line with it. There will be an individual who ultimately signed this off and approved it. Makes you wonder how much money was passed under the desk. Someone has blood on their hands and should be held accountable. Putting economic benefits before peoples lives is absolutely disgraceful. If there are no regulations to stop something like this then there should be.

[@eriklarson9137]

That's what I think the real issue is. The 1 single person that signed off on this needs to be held accountable. Period. They won't be. :( Scum bag politicians.

[@bricaaron3978]

@@eriklarson9137 How many pilots landed this approach prior to this one single incident? Do you know?

[@GLF-Video]

All administrative controls failed. I hope her family sues all of them.

[@mofayer]

No one in the admin will have to pay a penny, all of it will come from the taxpayer. 🤷. That's our justice system.

[@RadioRich100]

@@mofayer They dont deserve anything, pilot error

[@alpha_echo_diDi]

What kind of family lets a weak pilot fly passengers? They knew she was incompetent, the family should be sued for the cost of the stacks and the airplane

[@Catpanl]

@@alpha_echo_diDi savage. Lol.

[@ChanoLeyva-hq2ci]

@@alpha_echo_diDiwhat are you talking about dumbass

[@scottybear6265]

I learn every time I watch you. I learn from every crash. I also learn how to understand your reasoning and what the NTSB has to go through. I worked with the NTSB briefly on a crash. I was civil air patrol at the time so I respect the faa , ntsb and you greatly , thank you for teaching us because learning never ends

[@ExMachina70]

City Logic _"We have confirmed the stacks are safe because it brings in money."_

[@demef758]

@@your_very_best Oh please. I'm so old I can remember when Algore said that by 2015 NYC would be underwater from global warming. I can remember when Ted Danson said in the 80s that by the 1990s the US coast lines would be underwater. While in 2019 Obama buys a seaside mansion for $11.75M on Martha's Vineyard. What genius told you that these "experts" know what the hell they're talking about as the "hide the decline"?

[@JimmyR-k9y]

Awesome debrief, thank you for doing this one, great video and keep up the great work Hoover.

[@JHobartMusic72]

Man this channel is wild, I am not a pilot at all, I’m not nearly smart enough, but this channel reminds me of how aviation is not to be screwed with whatsoever. Even by the experts and professionals. The respect I have for pilots is right up there with the best of law enforcement

[@markbailey6051]

Move the stacks! Pay the relatives! Thank you for the video.

[@whdbnrm3023]

Money money moooney .Greed is a wonderful thing .

[@johnfranborra]

I was well-advised to fly approaches in the 208 at 120 KIAS and ten degrees flaps. Plenty of energy/lift and a good view over the nose, even for someone who sits low in the seat, like I do. Preposterous those stacks were allowed to be there, but she might have had a chance with more energy and an unobstructed view ahead.

[@DAVOPARKES]

Just found your channel, I'm not a pilot, but the way you explain everything makes it easy to comprehend, thank you. I've subscribed.

[@courtneysmith6082]

from a lawyers perspective, the mere fact that she didn’t hit it the first time does not excuse the fact that there is a nearly invisible obstacle intruding into the cone of reasonably foreseeable flight paths.

[@danepatterson8107]

Clearance of 98 feet: collision with those stacks was inevitable.

[@wizardm]

The key point is the vent stacks shouldn't have been there if the airfield stays operative. Another option would have been to install a condensation system that would have drastically reduced steam production and exhaust air temperature.

[@johnfranborra]

@@wizardm Or simply decommission the approach.

[@cogitoergospud1]

The existence of the stacks was disclosed and known. It was therefore foreseeable that flying the approach in the existing conditions was dangerous. Nonetheless, the pilot tragically assumed the risk. Ideally, the stacks would not be there. Legally, there should be no liability based on the stacks being there. Emotionally, a jury might decide otherwise, out of a desire to make “someone” pay, but that’s another issue. Indisputably, this is a tragic accident. Factually, I do have a law degree. Personally, these are just my opinions, and not legal advice.

[@BVN-TEXAS]

She had flown in that airport many times and not hit the stacks. She got distracted and it was pilot error. Yes the stacks that close are a hazard but many airfields have issues like this be it trees or some type of building. She was a skilled commercial pilot and knew the approach.

[@AsylumSaint]

As of last month those stacks still aren't painted. Sounds like the town wants that airport gone for the land. It is riverfront property. They certainly aren't concerned with making it accommodating.

[@ValerieGriner]

You have the BEST aviation channel on KZbin...so professional. Thank-you! This was a very sad tragedy and my heart goes out to her family and friends. Maybe they should CLOSE that airport.

[@mitchellsmith4601]

If you’re going to have these one hundred feet AGL stacks, the airport MUST have a precision approach.

[@Breenild]

But that's too expensive for them I guess! 😮

[@joeg4466]

Precision approaches aren't permitted with a 3.75 glide path.

[@AB1Vampire]

These aviation accident videos suggest to me that flying demands a full-time commitment. Anything less is dangerous.

[@synupps877]

Flying is inherently dangerous, as opposed to what some aviation saying says.

[@johnfranborra]

@@synupps877 As a pilot, I disagree. Just like any other activity, flying has inherent risks, but responsible aviators (i.e., pilots, mechanics, operators, manufacturers, etc.) mitigate those risks by appropriate training, practices, procedures and experience.

[@synupps877]

@@johnfranborra "Inherent risks" is just another term for "inherently dangerous." Us posting comments isn't inherently dangerous nor risky. Most, if not all, forms of transportation are inherently dangerous. Being in an aircraft moving at high or low speed at high or low altitude is inherently dangerous.

[@johnfranborra]

@@synupps877 Perhaps. I do this for a living; after a couple decades and thousands of hours, I've learned to manage the "danger" well enough.

[@b0rd3n]

and, also, 2 types of paint, masking tape optional.

[@SteveS-t2x]

Solid work, a tragic story. Save the grace of God there go I. 44 years flight experience, major airline captain checkout was in 1999, well over 20,000 hours and I learn from you every time I invest time in your videos. Thank you so much. Awesome stuff.

[@joegott9391]

If the approach angle is modified for it, how is it not a hazard

[@wingmanjim6]

Yeah, until something goes wrong. Planning a safety margin is crucial.

[@georgeconway4360]

You mention she may have lowered the nose because she may have gotten slow which may have happened. I recall way back when I was learning and then teaching students were taught pitch controls speed and power controls altitude. I recall it was taught this simplistic way together students not to use power for speed control. The reality is when you fly larger faster airplanes on a steady glide path power controls speed.

[@webcucciolo]

Because steeper flight paths are not uncommon, especially in the mountain.

[@enzy6434]

"Following the crash, Brittney's parents filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city of Burley, Gem State Processing, and other entities. They alleged that the placement of the smokestacks posed a known hazard that was ignored, and that the city and involved parties showed negligence and disregard for pilot safety. The lawsuit claims that the smokestacks were constructed without necessary approvals from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and that the city failed to act despite being aware of the danger for years. As of the latest information, the legal proceedings are ongoing, with the city and Gem State Processing denying the allegations. There have been no significant changes reported regarding the smokestacks or the airport's operation since the crash, however Burley officials are moving forward with plans to build a new airport, aiming to improve safety and compliance with FAA standards."

[@johnnytactical3054]

Nobody told her to fly that plane…sh!t happens

[@lilg2300]

​@@johnnytactical3054 nobody told you to make a shitty comment on youtube, but shitty comments on youtube get posted anyway.

[@UncleKennysPlace]

@@johnnytactical3054 There's always one like you. Unless something happens to you that you don't like, then your tune changes.

[@johnnytactical3054]

@@UncleKennysPlace yep this is always one like me…been alive almost 48 years cause I don’t take unnecessary risks…she did

[@BobbyGeneric145]

I took an Airport Design class in college... Whenever something is planned to be built near an airport, all parties involved are to apply to the faa to make sure the structure doesn't intrude into one of the geometric planes radiating oyt from the runways at various ratios.

[@alvon911]

THANK YOU from a non-aviator for your analysis. Between you and Juan Brown, I learn so much.

[@Vico649]

It seems like in aviation, accidents happen because of things known before the accident occurs but aren't taken seriously by either the pilots or 0eople connected to the aircraft or management.

[@mjproebstle]

Most, if not all of the accidents presented here are preventable. We can all learn a great deal from their analysis. That’s the purpose of this channel.

[@seaskimmer9071]

"Aviation in itself is not inherently dangerous. But, to an even greater extent than the sea, it is terribly unforgiving of any carelessness, incapacity, or neglect." (Anon.)

[@lornamurdocheaton624]

@Vico649 This is so true of ALL human endeavours. People make mistakes, circumstances change, they get distracted (sometimes by greed), forget the safety rules, or overestimate their skills. It's human. Most times people get away with it, but air and motor sports, riding motorbikes or horses, or pretty much anything competitive can be unforgiving. Sometimes terrible accidents lead to better safety for all of us.

[@SeanAwning-er4ww]

Maybe the NTSB should watch this analysis before issuing a final report. As you pointed out, there's a substantial difference between the exhaust plume 200 feet above the stack and 98 feet above the stack.

[@beefjezos2713]

“Maybe the NTSB should watch this analysis” …If you truly believe that it might be time for a break from the internet. This analysis is great but soctiety’s shift towards “im just going to decide that I know better than the experts” is pretty frightening to be honest.

[@PRH123]

​@@beefjezos2713 Sean didn't say that he personally knows better, he said that Hoover's analysis is significant, because Hoover is an expert. Review by independent experts / journalists is very important to keeping organizations like the FAA honest.

[@ninedaysjane2466]

@@PRH123 He's not an air crash investigator. It's a specialized field. Do you think the NTSB isn't full of experts? Read one of their reports sometime. They know their stuff and they have taken the FAA to task many, many, many times. The NTSB is not an enforcement agency. They can only make recommendations. The FAA -- which is run by a political appointee, by the way -- chooses whether to follow them. The FAA has a terrible reputation for only passing regulations after enough people have died. Hence the nickname the Tombstone Agency.

[@PRH123]

@@ninedaysjane2466 I’ve read hundreds of NTSB reports, big ones, and small ones. I actually said nothing regarding the competency of the NTSB, or their role. I commented on the value of assessment by independent experts such as Hoover. This was in reply to your comment to Sean, that mischaracterized his comment. He said he appreciates the input of independent experts such as Hoover, as do I.

[@waynegibson1698]

I definitely enjoy your videos. I’m not an aviator, but I find your videos very informative and easy to understand for someone like me that doesn’t fly. I think they are very interesting and thanks for posting them.

[@HughPlatt-g5u]

How much we appreciate your meticulous analyses - thank you, "Hoover"!

[@michaelkennedy2256]

Shortly after this tragedy, there was a group of us (all pilots) trying to deconstruct what happened. The two biggest questions we were left with were "Why is there a stack on final to begin with?" and "Why did she experience the high rate of descent on short final?" This analysis really helps what we could only guess at with limited information. In the Hierarchy of Controls, removing the hazard is always the best answer. In this case, remove the stack and you not only remove the obstacle, you remove the steam. My condolences to Brittney, and her family and friends. Ty for the breakdown.

[@GODSWORD11]

How about don’t hit the GD stacks?! It’s pretty simple math!!!!

[@bricaaron3978]

*""Why is there a stack on final to begin with?""* There are much, much tighter conditions on many approaches worldwide. *""Why did she experience the high rate of descent on short final?""* Pilot errror.

[@RicardoVeraJr.]

I must say, Hoover. Your debriefs are so incredibly informative. I’ve never had an interest in aviation and I’ve only ever been on one commercial flight my whole life. However, your ability to break down these incidents, as well as explaining the terminology and instrumentations, are so captivating that I’ve been finding myself binging your videos 😂 Thank you for what you do and I’m almost positive that your work is contributing greatly to the aviation community. Thank you for your service as well, sir. Happy Independence Day!

[@Aztom40]

Thanks Hoover. I was just there at the city park across from the factory on May 19th and I took a couple photos being aware of this tragic accident. Just to let you know, the remaining stacks have never been painted per the FAA recommendation. Though there must have been much NTSB and FAA presence there after the accident and the fact that the company did not comply to the recommendation, nothing was ever done and no enforcement was directed at the company. I could send you the photos, which the meta data confirms when they were taken, if you like.

[@robertallen4490]

I did a little digging into this one after seeing this video. In 2016, the FAA told the city that the airport was not up to FAA safety standards, and that they would pull federal funding if the airport was not brought up to standards. The city decided to move the airport, but after eight years, moving the airport is still in the planning stages. Meanwhile, they did nothing to improve the safety of the current airport, and in 2018, the FAA did cut funding, after which time the condition of the runway began to slowly deteriorate. Shortening the runway would have brought it up to standards, but then commercial cargo flights like the accident flight would have had to be moved to another airport, so again the city decided to put money over safety. Meanwhile, since the accident, nothing has been done to improve safety, rhe exhaust stacks still aren’t painted properly, the runway has not been shortened, and the airport continues to deteriorate from lack of maintenance. I hope if the pilot’s parents take an out of court settlement, they make the defendants agree to implement some of these corrective actions as a condition of the settlement. And whether or not there is a settlement or the case goes to trial, I hope the plaintiffs get enough money from the suit to offset all the so-called financial benefits the city and the potato plant were getting by operating in such an unsafe manner. A settlement will never bring the pilot back, but unfortunately, sometimes the only way to get these companies’ attention is to hit them in the pocket book, which means there usually has to be an accident like this before anyone has standing to file a lawsuit.

[@wolf7234]

I first started watching Hoover about a year ago. I fly and have always watched and read everything I can about accident to hopefully not make a mistake that another poor soul has made. Aviation advances have always been paid for in blood sweat and tears, and more blood than anything else. It's a very rewarding field but it is most unforgiving. I've lost friends and acquaintances along my way in it. So to help stay safe and to use what the comrades have paid for with their blood I watch and read what I can. This said I'd like to say thanks to Hoover for putting the effort into this and for not letting the loss of our fellow aviators be wasted. Thanks again Hoover.

[@paat777]

As we used to say in Navy carrier ops in the F4 Phantom…..”Speed is Life”. I was smart to carry it over to commercial aviation. We also used to say “add a couple of knots for mama and the kids.” Low and slow is not the place to be ANYWHERE. Rest in peace Brittney. My heart hurts hearing this sad story.

[@robkyzer6695]

Well said sir. Truly a sad story.

[@dantimber]

Why was she flying the approach with flaps up at only 85 knots? I agree the stacks were long a hazard but is that what caused the accident?

[@78tag]

Since when does a statement about SAFETY and ECONOMICS show up in the same sentence ???? In my 40 years of construction admin, I never saw it once accept to say it is going to be more expensive to meet safety requirements. It's time to check into APPROVALS and BANK ACCOUNTS !!!!

[@rubiks6]

As usual, a fantastic debrief. This is one of the saddest debriefs I've seen from you. Condolences to Brittany's family and friends. I hope they sue the socks off the city and the factory.

[@oleleclos]

You don't say much about it, but to my mind flying the final approach without flaps was her real undoing. Why did she do that? Did she simply forget the flaps after first flying a flapless, higher speed approach to look things over, then come back for landing? Maybe she didn't do the full approach checks again? Whatever the reason, RIP.

[@thomasdurant7907]

I was nearly screaming when I heard him say that she didn't use flaps. I had to look it up, but the stall speed is 75KT in that configuration. That would be like me doing my approach in the 172 at 55KT, the stall horn goes crazy and you want to push the nose down quickly then increase power. A turbine takes more time to spool back up so I don't know why she wouldn't have gone around other than missing the speed or missing the flaps. The speed seems deliberate so the conclusion is really uncomfortable. She still would have had to go around after seeing the runway and realizing she screwed something up. At least without the stacks there, she would have had that option.

[@Civ33]

I don't know what the POH for the 208 says about it since I don't fly the 208, but flaps up landings are required in some instances in icing conditions due to the danger of stalling the aircraft

[@oleleclos]

@@Civ33 Yes, but then she wouldn't have been doing 85 knots, which is Vref for Flaps 30. Vref Flaps 0 is 100 knots at max gross, which is what she did on the first approach. Looks like she knew her speeds and kept them very well, but forgot to lower the flaps because she didn't do a full approach check after the go-around. Been there, done that, thankfully in a more forgiving aircraft.

[@jiyushugi1085]

Those who have never been low-time pilots flying single pilot in bad weather in their first 'real' flying job have no idea how much stress such pilots are under. The company should've put an experienced pilot in the right seat to watch over her, especially in those weather conditions.

[@oleleclos]

​@@jiyushugi1085 Well, yes. But I have actually done that, and one of the things that kept me out of trouble was being a stickler for check lists. And, admittedly, a bit of luck on the rare occasions I forgot something anyway - got distracted, whatever. But that's just my point. Flying shouldn't rely on luck, so stick to your checklists, please. Every time. Even when "you've just done it".

[@richardcatalinajr.369]

Another excellent debrief. The holes in the Swiss cheese may have lined up, but the stacks should not have been there. Common sense says you don't build obstructions in the path of incoming, descending aircraft. Thanks for the shout out to blancolirio - Juan is detailed and comprehensive.

[@JimCar71]

Another great debrief. Your research and analysis is second to none.

[@ExMachina70]

Who else here thought, "fk the city. They need to have the shit sued out of them?"

[@RadioRich100]

No you need better trained pilots who wont run into stationary obstacles.

[@yabman1317]

Which city to sue! That processing plant is in HEYBURN, ID and the airport is across the river in BURLEY, ID.

[@ExMachina70]

@@yabman1317 Easy, sue the city that gave the green light to have the factory built in the first place.

[@yabman1317]

@@ExMachina70 Understood. I have learned a few more things since my original post, which make it not very correct. The factory was actually built in 1960. I just read the it donated the 22 million dollar plant to the city of Burley (Burley paid about $50,000 in fees for the transfer). So the plant is actually the responsibility of the city of Burley who then leased it out to various companies including Gem State Processing who eventually built the tall smokestacks that the pilot was killed on.

[@1978garfield]

@@yabman1317 It isn't like the plant woke up one morning and decided to add the stacks. They were required by the EPA.

[@iwaswrongabouteveryhthing]

very nose high to see that exhaust stack, lighting the stack in $1000 worth of lights would be a great help