“Fatal Plane Crash off California Coast: Victim Identified as Emma Willmer-Shiles”

Accident – death – Obituary News :

Home-Built Aircraft Crash off California Coast: What We Know So Far

Los Angeles, California – A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday evening when a small airplane crashed into the ocean just south of San Francisco. The single-engine Cozy Mark IV, constructed over nearly a decade, was carrying four people at the time of the crash. As of now, no survivors have been found, and only one body has been recovered. The names of the pilot and passengers have not been released.

Plane Registered to Winged Wallabies, Inc.

The ill-fated aircraft was registered to an Oakland-based company known as Winged Wallabies, Inc., according to Federal Aviation Administration records. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, but one witness reported hearing an engine losing power and cutting out.

A Passionate Pilot Behind the Controls

Thane Ostroth, a retired dentist who spent years building the Cozy Mark IV, sold the plane to a young, experienced pilot from Australia last year. The buyer, in his late 20s, demonstrated impressive skills during his first test flight, successfully landing the aircraft. Ostroth described the pilot as knowledgeable and enthusiastic about planes.

A Devastating Blow to the Home-Built Aircraft Community

The crash of the Cozy Mark IV has deeply affected the tight-knit community of pilots and builders of these planes. Ostroth, who learned about the accident through an online chat group, expressed his shock and sadness over the incident. He described it as a traumatic experience, knowing that the plane he had dedicated so much time and effort to had crashed with people on board.

Home-Built Aircraft: A Thriving Hobby

The Cozy Mark IV is one of thousands of home-built aircraft that enthusiasts construct across the country. These planes, like commercial aircraft, must undergo annual inspections for airworthiness. With over 33,000 amateur-built aircraft licensed by the FAA, the popularity of this hobby has tripled since the 1980s. Home-built planes, including the Cozy aircraft, have a safety record comparable to commercially manufactured planes of similar size.

The Cozy Mark IV: A Unique Design

The four-seat Cozy Mark IV, with its distinctive “canard” design, has become a favorite among aviation hobbyists. The small forewing placed in front of the main wing gives it a resemblance to a stretched-out duck in flight. Despite its lightweight construction, the Cozy Mark IV is a fast, stable, and fuel-efficient aircraft. With a top speed approaching 200 mph, it offers a thrilling flying experience for its owners.

The Journey of Building a Cozy Aircraft

Building a Cozy aircraft is a labor of love that involves piecing together various parts over a substantial period. DIY enthusiasts purchase foam, fiberglass, and metal parts from authorized suppliers to meticulously assemble their planes. The process often involves seeking advice and tips from online forums dedicated to Cozy aircraft builders.

Investigation Underway

The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the crash. Their team arrived at the scene on Tuesday to document the wreckage and interview witnesses. They anticipate releasing a preliminary report within 30 days, shedding light on the cause of this tragic incident.

Conclusion

The crash of the Cozy Mark IV has sent shockwaves through the home-built aircraft community. As investigators work to determine the cause of the crash, aviation enthusiasts mourn the loss of lives and reflect on the passion and dedication that goes into constructing these remarkable aircraft..