A Wing And A Prayer: Planes That Almost Crashed

Microlight & Light Aircraft Near Miss

A catastrophic accident was amazingly avoided, and all the credit is due to the pilot’s skill and really “sheer luck.” But, I suppose that’s the case with many near-miss situations. Yes, there’s a lot that can be said for human error being a part of near-miss disasters, and then you can factor in the warning systems that come into play.

But, a pilot’s skill and training alsohasan enormous part to play in how these potentially devastating situations turn out. As you can see, a light airplane and a microlight came so close that the pilot shouted, “Holy [expletive]” as he went into a dive to avoid the collision. As for the “luck” factor, the pilot said, “It just wasn’t our day to die.” The whole event unfolded in a matter of seconds at 1,300 ft.

What About Near-Miss Disasters?

As you can see, aerial disasters can happen at any time. Often, they take place in the blink of an eye, without warning and even in the most “standard” or seemingly “boring” of situations. Yes, weather and technology can come into play, but human error and the pilot’s courage can just as easily make the difference between a crash-and-burn catastrophe and salvation.

You may not realize it, but as these stories show that near misses happen all the time, and passengers don’t always realize that anything potentially life-threatening has occurred, particularly if the pilot is “just THAT good.” The stories are interesting, they might get your blood pumping or even boiling, but it may also inspire you to thank your pilot next time you fly. He or she may have just saved your life, even if you don’t realize it!