Plane crash in GA

From what we've been unofficially told and from the other instructors who were in the pattern at CTJ (there were three in total from our school) and one at CCO; the pilot of the Bonanza was broadcasting his calls on 122.7 (old CTJ CTAF and CCO's current CTAF) instead of 122.975 (CTJ's current CTAF).

It's a tragic accident that could have been avoided. Talyor and her student were doing everything right.

I hate it for her and her family. We are all deeply saddened here at Falcon and me even especially. I was lucky enough to spend the last year of her life as her boyfriend. We both shared a common dream and now I'll do my best to honor that and carry on.

Thanks to everyone for the warm words and condolences.

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If anyone is interested in the preliminary report. Nothing much to add from what I posted earlier.

http://www.ntsb.gov/_layouts/ntsb.aviation/GeneratePDF.aspx?id=ERA16FA312B&rpt=p

This has been the worst three weeks of my life, but I'm trying to move forward with life. She would have kicked my butt had I given up flying. We've had services for both Taylor and her student "Raymond". I've taken over the training of her other surviving student (not involved in the accident). Looking to get my last 200 hours and move on. The flight school just isn't the same without her there. I appreciate all the thoughts/prayers/words. I and Taylor's family have been overwhelmed with the amount of support from the aviation community.

Fly safe.
 
CUTigerPilot said:
If anyone is interested in the preliminary report. Nothing much to add from what I posted earlier.

http://www.ntsb.gov/_layouts/ntsb.aviation/GeneratePDF.aspx?id=ERA16FA312B&rpt=p

This has been the worst three weeks of my life, but I'm trying to move forward with life. She would have kicked my butt had I given up flying. We've had services for both Taylor and her student "Raymond". I've taken over the training of her other surviving student (not involved in the accident). Looking to get my last 200 hours and move on. The flight school just isn't the same without her there. I appreciate all the thoughts/prayers/words. I and Taylor's family have been overwhelmed with the amount of support from the aviation community.

Fly safe.
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I can only imagine how the last few weeks have been for you, and I think it is wonderful that you aren't giving up what both of you loved so much. The aviation community is amazingly strong and you will always have the support you need to get through this and continue what she would have. She was very lucky to have you and even luckier to have your dedication to continue her legacy. I am so sorry that you had to experience this, but hope that all those great memories comfort you. Thank you for sharing your memories with all of us.
 
Bumping this thread to help share some information from Taylor's sister, Shelby. She's trying to set up a way to raise some money for a memorial/scholarship. Taylor started flying in her teens and was one of the many kids who get touched by the aviation bug at a young age.

Shelby had a great idea of selling shirts, decals, and other apparel that a lot of people like to use on an everyday basis. We were thinking of creating a type of event/fly in to help raise awareness for both the fund and to help promote general aviation safety.

Anyone who may have been involved in something similar or who has experience with organizing aviation events or fly ins, I would love any advice you could share. Even if some have a better avenue to get this out there. I'm open to any ideas.

I'm not sure yet if Shelby and her family are wanting to tie the scholarship to Middle Tennessee State University or open it up as a general scholarship to be used at any flight school program.

I've become very close to Taylor's sister and want to help her with this endeavor. It's the best way we can think of to honor Taylor's memory.

We're still in the planning stages and I'm trying to finish up my training at PSA. I've got my PC/LOFT checks the first part of March. It's been a rollercoaster to say the least. I flew 300 hours in the 2.5 months after the accident. Training has gone well but I do feel guilty at times for getting to do something she'll never get to. But I'm glad that I have kept flying. And I'm excited to finish up and start flying the line.

Below are some examples of what Shelby would like to have on the shirts.

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CUTigerPilot said:
It's been a rollercoaster to say the least. I flew 300 hours in the 2.5 months after the accident. Training has gone well but I do feel guilty at times for getting to do something she'll never get to.
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I wouldn't ever let yourself feel this way. Sounds like you two shared this passion. I'm positive you're doing exactly what she would have wanted.

Great idea on the scholarship. Please post when you finish!
 
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