Tragedy Strikes as Home-Built Plane Crashes off California Coast
A small airplane, meticulously constructed over nearly a decade, tragically crashed into the ocean off the California coast on Sunday. This devastating incident highlights the growing popularity of home-built aircraft as a high-flying hobby across the country.
Federal investigators have revealed that the single-engine Cozy Mark IV, known for its lightweight design and stability, went down in the evening just south of San Francisco. Despite extensive search efforts, no survivors have been found, and only one body has been recovered from the waters near Half Moon Bay.
The plane, registered to the Oakland-based company Winged Wallabies, Inc., was reportedly carrying four people, including the pilot and two passengers whose identities have not been released. While the cause of the crash remains unknown, a witness reported hearing an engine losing power and cutting out.
Thane Ostroth, a retired dentist and the original builder of the aircraft, sold it last year to a young and experienced pilot from Australia. This enthusiastic buyer, who had demonstrated impressive skill during the test flight, purchased the plane for approximately $100,000. However, it is unclear whether he was among those onboard during the tragic incident.
The Cozy Mark IV is part of a class of planes constructed by individuals rather than mass-produced by companies. With over 33,000 amateur-built aircraft licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), this growing trend has tripled since the 1980s. These non-commercial, recreational planes are designated as “experimental” and are subject to annual inspections for airworthiness.
Marc Zeitlin, an aeronautical engineer who consults with the National Transportation Safety Board, has emphasized that Cozy aircraft have a safety record comparable to commercially built planes. With its unique “canard” design and lightweight construction, the Mark IV offers both speed and stability, making it a popular choice among aviation hobbyists.
The tragedy of Sunday’s crash has deeply affected Ostroth, who spent years constructing and flying the aircraft. He expressed his sorrow, stating that it is a “horrible feeling” to know that the plane he poured so much time and effort into was involved in such a devastating incident.
As investigations continue, the aviation community mourns the loss of lives and awaits the preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board. This heartbreaking accident serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in aviation, even within the realm of home-built planes that adhere to strict safety regulations..