August 2025 Proficiency Club & Safety Meeting

As pilots committed to continuous improvement, our focus on proficiency and safety is paramount. This month’s meeting is a vital opportunity for us to learn from a recent, tragic event and reinforce the critical importance of sound Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM). We will be conducting a thorough analysis of a real-life disaster to ensure we all have the tools and awareness to prevent similar situations.

A Deep Dive into the N5656M Disaster

Our discussion on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Centennial Training Center will center on the unfortunate accident that occurred on July 7, 2025, involving a G3 Cirrus (N5656M) that took off from Merritt Island, Florida. This VFR flight, carrying four family members, ended tragically when the aircraft crashed.

Based on the preliminary NTSB report, the pilot experienced multiple mechanical issues, including communication and electrical problems, yet continued the flight, bypassing several safe landing options. The investigation noted that the aircraft’s left fuel tank was empty and the CAPS pin was still installed, indicating that the emergency parachute had not been deployed.

This incident serves as a profound and somber reminder of how a series of questionable ADM choices can lead to a catastrophic outcome. We will analyze the sequence of events, discussing key decision points and exploring how different choices could have changed the flight’s outcome.

Attending this meeting is a valuable opportunity for all pilots to learn from this event and sharpen their ADM skills. We hope to see you at our Centennial Training Center.