History Centre Welcomes RNPA Board

            On June 8 th we enjoyed the company of some thirty members of the Retired Northwest Airlines Pilot’s Association Board and their spouses. This was a first time visit to the museum for a number of them. They were somewhat chagrined to learn of an incident involving the electrified cut away L-188 Electra model that RNPA has on indefinite loan to the History Centre.

            A few days prior to the reception, and with no advance warning the model threw the prop from its #3 engine. The prop flew up and struck an overhead light fixture and fell to the floor self-destructing. There was no other damage to the model, other exhibits, light fixture or to the floor. Neither were there any injuries with the exception of slightly frayed nerves of volunteers and visitors from the noise and clatter.

            The History Centre Accident Investigation Committee consisting of volunteers, retired mechanic John Peterson and retired mechanic/flight engineer/pilot Bob Mielke is reviewing the incident.

            With tongue in cheek, RNPA President Gary Pisel called his Board into executive session which, in turn, directed that its Safety Committee to assist with the investigation if it had the time and was so inclined. Due to vagaries of time and the complexity of any investigation, it is not expected that a complete final accident report will be available for several months, id ever. Inasmuch as the Propeller Shop has been outsourced, it is believed that we must seek a foreign supplier for a replacement prop.

Wayne Ward, retired pilot, and Gary Pisel, President of RNPA

Retired pilots Gary Baldwin and Richard Duxberry with
Joan Baldwin, Gary's wife.