372 N2UZ Bonanza Crash: When Best Glide is Insufficient; Scottsdale Learjet Update + GA News

Max gives and update on the Learjet crash in Scottsdale and the crash of a Cirrus SR22 in Santa Barbara. He also analyzes the crash of N2UZ, a Bonanza B35B, which suffered an engine failure at 7,500 feet while flying over Virginia. The well-trained pilot attempted to glide to Charlottesville Airport (KCHO) but crashed in a wooded area just beyond a 3,000-foot-long field. ADS-B data shows that the aircraft’s10.2:1 glide ratio was insufficient to reach the airport from its initial altitude. He discusses factors that could have altered the outcome, including diverting to Snow Hill, a private 2,200-foot grass strip within possible gliding range, or choosing a higher cruising altitude to increase the glide distance.

The episode emphasizes the importance of proactive flight planning, including staying within glide range of an airport, using avionics tools like glide range rings, and making early decisions when faced with an emergency. Suggestions for improved safety include better route planning, considering altitude selection, and advocating for EFB applications to incorporate flight planning tools that maintain energy cones.

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