One Dead After Warbird Crashes During Florida Airshow Practice (Updated)

posted in: Warbirds | 1
OV-1 Mohawk - AirshowStuff

Update (11/2/19) – The name of the pilot has been released to the public. Dr. Joe Masessa was the sole occupant of the aircraft at the time of the crash. He owned the Mohawk and performed at airshows under the “Mohawk Airshows” brand. Although organizers attempted to continue the show, weather eventually forced the cancellation of all weekend activities.

Dr. Joe Masessa - Mohawk Airshows

Original Post – A Vietnam War-era aircraft crashed today in Florida, killing the pilot. The pilot, whose name is being withheld, was flying the Grumman OV-1 Mohawk through a practice routine in preparation for this weekends Stuart Air Show when he lost control and impacted the ground. No one on the ground was hurt.

Following the crash, show organizers called off all remaining activities today but announced that the public airshows on Saturday and Sunday will go on as planned.

The OV-1 Mohawk is a twin turboprop attack and observation aircraft that served with the US Army during the Vietnam War. This particular aircraft was painted as a tribute to Vietnam MIA/POWs, including the names of all 1,636 missing servicemen and women.

For more information, follow along on our forum thread about the crash.

OV-1 Mohawk - AirshowStuff

  1. Greg Shepherd

    Condolences to the pilots family and flight team. We know how close you have to be to perform these amazing feats in your shows. May God bless.

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