Remembering Richard McSpadden

With heavy hearts we remember and pay tribute to a truly remarkable individual, Richard McSpadden. The aviation world has been shaken by the sudden loss of this extraordinary man, whose impact on the industry was profound. We reflect on the life and contributions of Richard, a former commander of the USAF Thunderbirds and a vice president at AOPA, where he served as the director of the Air Safety Institute.

On the afternoon of Sunday, October 1st, 2023, Richard was involved in an aircraft crash near Lake Placid, New York. The Cessna 177RG he was in experienced an emergency upon take off and was unable to make it back to the airport. He and another pilot did not survive.

Richard's legacy in the aviation community is nothing short of remarkable. Richard's aircraft incident early analysis videos have left an indelible mark on the aviation community. Through these videos, he shared his knowledge and expertise, providing valuable lessons and fostering a culture of safety within the aviation world. His contributions will continue to guide and inspire pilots for generations to come.

Our podcast had the privilege to feature him as a guest. Our paths crossed at Airventure, an event that serves as a focal point for aviation enthusiasts. His warmth and generosity were evident as he graciously spent time chatting with us and even facilitated introductions for future interviews.

In memory of Richard and as a token of our gratitude for his contributions, we are republishing our interview with him from this past summer. We hope that by sharing his insights and experiences once more, we can continue to benefit from the wisdom he imparted to us.

To Richard's family, friends, and the entire AOPA community, our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Richard's presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will forever soar in the skies of aviation.

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