Woman lands plane after pilot husband dies in air

[joseephuss]

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57409127/woman-80-lands-plane-after-husband-pilot-dies/

Woman, 80, lands plane after husband pilot dies

April 4, 2012 8:22 AM

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Woman, 80, lands plane after husband pilot dies

By
Bob Orr

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(CBS News) - A woman, 80, took over the controls mid-flight and landed a small plane in northeastern Wisc., when her husband, the pilot was stricken.

Helen and John Collins were married for 58 years. When visiting family, they often didn't drive - they flew in a twin engine Cessna. John was an experienced pilot, averaging 250 flight hours each summer.

But, late Monday afternoon, while flying to see one of their sons, something went terribly wrong.

Pilot dies at controls; Wife, 80, lands plane

Helen realized John had lost consciousness. With little flight experience of her own and none with this particular plane, the 80-year-old woman took over the controls.

Captain Chesley Sullenberger knows something about dangerous flights and emergency landings. "She obviously had paid attention when her husband was flying the airplane. Then she was able to master her fear."

 

[BrAinPaiNt]

You know it is not the idea that she took over the plane and landed it. I mean that by itself is impressive. However what really stands out is the idea that she did it while her husband was dying or had just died. The amount of emotions would had to be extreme and for her to keep her calm enough to land the plane at that point is simply amazing.

 

[ShiningStar]

You know it is not the idea that she took over the plane and landed it. I mean that by itself is impressive. However what really stands out is the idea that she did it while her husband was dying or had just died. The amount of emotions would had to be extreme and for her to keep her calm enough to land the plane at that point is simply amazing.

very well put and quiet true.

 

[Cajuncowboy]

You know it is not the idea that she took over the plane and landed it. I mean that by itself is impressive. However what really stands out is the idea that she did it while her husband was dying or had just died. The amount of emotions would had to be extreme and for her to keep her calm enough to land the plane at that point is simply amazing.

That was my thoughts as well. Amazing act.

 

[Cowboys&LakersFan]

You know it is not the idea that she took over the plane and landed it. I mean that by itself is impressive. However what really stands out is the idea that she did it while her husband was dying or had just died. The amount of emotions would had to be extreme and for her to keep her calm enough to land the plane at that point is simply amazing.

This.

 

[lane]

You know it is not the idea that she took over the plane and landed it. I mean that by itself is impressive. However what really stands out is the idea that she did it while her husband was dying or had just died. The amount of emotions would had to be extreme and for her to keep her calm enough to land the plane at that point is simply amazing.

my thoughts exactly..

 

[Jammer]

My wife would never have done that. If I died while piloting a plane she wouldn't try to land safely because in her eyes she would figure "why bother?" Her life wouldn't be worth living anymore.



I kid. I kid.