Pilot Richard McSpadden, former Thunderbirds leader and safety advocate, dies in plane crash

Richard McSpadden, a prominent American pilot and safety advocate, died in a plane crash on October 1, 2023, at age 63. He was flying with former football player Russ Francis when their aircraft experienced engine failure near Lake Placid, New York. McSpadden served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, leading the Thunderbirds Air Demonstration Team. He later became executive director of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Air Safety Institute, where he produced safety materials accessed millions of times annually. He was known for his commitment to aviation safety, developing programs to enhance pilot training and decision-making. McSpadden's influence extended through various initiatives and speaking engagements, earning recognition for his contributions to the aviation community.