Overview of the Incident
On June 15, 2024, a catastrophic event unfolded at the Yanks Air Museum during the ‘Pops and Props’ Father’s Day airshow in Chino, California. A vintage Lockheed 12A Electra Junior, a historical aircraft from the World War II era, met with a fatal crash shortly after its takeoff from Chino Airport. This tragic accident resulted in the loss of two lives, including Frank Wright, the Chief of Operations at Yanks Air Museum.
Details of the Crash
The Lockheed 12A Electra Junior, involved in the incident, encountered difficulties during takeoff. According to reports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aircraft stalled as it ascended, leading to a catastrophic loss of control. Witnesses described seeing the aircraft’s left wingtip strike the ground, followed by the aircraft’s nose impacting the runway, which resulted in the plane coming to a halt beside the runway. The crash was marked by an immediate explosion and a large plume of black smoke, indicating a severe impact and fire.
Video footage from the scene captured the harrowing moments of the crash, showing the small World War II-era plane as it struggled to gain altitude before the tragic descent near Chino Airport. The incident drew immediate response from emergency services, who rushed to the site to manage the aftermath and commence investigative procedures.
Investigation and Impact
The FAA has announced a full investigation into the causes of the crash. Initial speculation points to potential mechanical failure or operational error, but the exact cause remains under investigation. The Yanks Air Museum has expressed its commitment to cooperate fully with FAA investigators to ascertain the details of the incident.
The loss of Frank Wright, a respected member of the aviation community and a key figure at the museum, has been deeply felt. Wright was known for his extensive knowledge and passion for aviation history, having contributed significantly to the museum’s operations and educational outreach. The museum community, along with Wright’s colleagues and family, mourn his untimely demise.
This incident has cast a shadow over the aviation community, particularly those involved with vintage aircraft. It serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with operating and displaying historical aircraft. The Yanks Air Museum and the broader aviation community are expected to review safety protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future.