4 rescued after dramatic airplane ditch in Gulf

Wow. That is a really good pilot.

It is obvious that this pilot took the proper precautions for flying over a large span of water including a life raft, and four souls were saved. Remember the former USAF F-16 hot jock that flew from Miami to Key West on a Cessna 172 a few weeks ago, the engine quit and he had no rafts, flashlights, two-way radio, nothing but had the good fortune that a boat was in the nighborhood and picked him up.

i wonder how much time they saved by going single engine over open water at least they got a helicopter ride out of it

That is the epitome of a total loss! Easy insurance pay off...

Sounds like he was completely prepared. Nice work.

Here is [http://flightaware.com/live/flight/N350MM a link to the flight (N350MM)]

The Delta pilot who went off course to keep an eye on the plane demonstrated true airmanship.

Paul, do you have a link to the Delta flight?

"i wonder how much time they saved by going single engine over open water"

Looks like about 2:15 direct. 5:45 to stay over land.

Wow, what great skill plus I'm sure that the pilot would think that he had a bit of luck too.

Here's a link to a detailed account of the event, those guys were extremely fortunate.
http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2010/12/4_rescued_after_small_plane_cr.html

That was a superb job that pilot did and wonderful that he was well prepared. Hats off to the guys on the oil rigg and the Delta pilot!!! In spite of the extra costs with a twin and the asymetrical challenges possible, I think I'll stick with my old Piper Apache 235, lots of power left to get home and a great fuel management system. Great to read of a happy ending for the pilot and his family!!!

Quote from NOLA article referenced above:
"It wasn't the first time Ross found himself preparing for a difficult landing. A retired brigadier general with the Louisiana Air National Guard, his 50 years of flying included coaxing planes to safety even when they were on fire or after their landing gear failed"

You just can't beat experience and training. I'd fly w/General Ross tomorrow.

Where are the environmentalists on this one? You mean there is an operational oil rig in the gulf?!?!? How could Obama have failed us? File a lawsuit against them and call this General as a witness.

When he starts flying commercial I may consider it (flying commercial) again...
one flight I "Might" consider getting groped for.