Aviation News

Currently Playing: Did Pilot Error Really Cause Congressman's Crash? NTSB Prelim Breakdown

Dan Millican breaks down the NTSB preliminary report on the September 12, 2026, night ditching of a Beechcraft K35 V-Tail Bonanza near Wausau, Wisconsin, carrying U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany. We look at the facts surrounding the aircraft's fuel system, the descent into the traffic pattern, the post-accident discovery of three full tanks and one empty, and why early headlines claiming "pilot error" jump the gun on what an NTSB prelim actually proves. Plus, key takeaways on emergency checklists, boost pump procedures, and training. If you enjoyed the video, please like, subscribe, and remember: superior judgment trumps superior skill! — LINKS — ▸ Check out Dan's new book! → https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0HKKN3VNL ▸ Sign up for our email newsletter! → https://taking-off.kit.com/d0caf18c91 — PARTNERS & SPONSORS — ▸ For business inquiries → takingoff@outloudtalent.com ▸ Serendipitous Films – Need a video for your company? → sales@s-films.com ▸ AEROVERSE – Use code TakingOff for 15% off! → https://www.aeroverse.com/ ▸ FlyingEyes Optics – Get 10% off pilot glasses → https://flyingeyesoptics.com/pages/taking-offs-discount ▸ Colten Mortgage – Residential mortgage & refi, run by a pilot! → https://www.coltenmortgage.com/takingoff ▸ XeVision – Extreme LED Landing Lights. The only competitor is the sun! → https://www.xevision.com ▸ Clemens Insurance – Your broker should be fighting for you. Call Clemens! → https://www.clemensinsurance.net/ ▸ Marshal Protective Services – Private Security Elevated! → https://mpsprotects.com/ ▸ METAR Maps – The large METAR map on our set! Mention TakingOff when you order → https://metarmaps.com/ ▸ Lightspeed Headsets – Support us by buying through our link → https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/?ref=13