LETHBRIDGE – This weekend marks the first anniversary of a shocking jet crash at the Alberta International Air Show that made headlines worldwide.
A CF-18 fighter jet went down in flames during a practice run. Remarkably, no one was seriously injured, including pilot Captain Brian Bews, who ejected and pulled his parachute with just seconds to spare.
The crash is sure to be on the minds of many at this year’s show which could be a drawing factor for many.
The demo team is back in full force to perform for air enthusiasts but they will not be performing the “˜high alpha pass’ maneuver.
2010’s accident occurred during the maneuver, which requires the pilot to slow the aircraft down and raise the nose to fly past the crowd. The lip from the wings and the thrust of the engines normally maintain straight and level flight.
However, on that Friday, Brews said he felt unusual turbulence when attempting to pull up from the maneuver, something he had done 50 or 60 times before.
The demo team is a one-year opportunity for pilots. Captain Brian Bews will not be making an appearance at this year’s show. He is now spending his time teaching other jet pilots.
As for safety concerns, organizers say they did everything by the book last year, so the 2011 show will be business as usual.
Crews will rehearse their rescue procedures Friday at the Lethbridge airport before the show gets underway on Saturday.
The investigation into last year’s CF-18 crash is ongoing.
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