Meanwhile, in Santa Cruz, Calif., the FAA says it now knows who was flying a Cessna 172 that allegedly “buzzed” a couple of local beaches. They won’t say who the pilot is but they have confirmed it’s not the registered owner of the plane, whose tail number was caught in photos supplied by complainants. As AVweb told you a couple of weeks ago, witnesses claimed the plane flew at an altitude of a few feet — low enough that one woman was worried it would hit her nine-year-old nephew. The local newspaper described the flight as an “attack” on the beach. AVweb got a few e-mails from readers telling much the same story. FAA spokesman Donn Walker said officials have spoken with the pilot and intend to interview him again. Witnesses had earlier complained of FAA foot-dragging on their complaints and an indifferent attitude among agency officials.
…California Buzzing Suspect Found
Key Takeaways:
- A Cessna 172 was reported to have flown at a very low altitude near Santa Cruz beaches, causing concern among beachgoers.
- The FAA identified the pilot, confirming it's not the registered owner of the aircraft.
- Witnesses described the flight as alarming, with one woman fearing for her nephew's safety.
- The FAA has interviewed the pilot and plans further questioning, addressing earlier complaints about their response.
See a mistake? Contact us.
