Witnesses Say Two Red Seaplanes Flew Under 'The Mighty Mac'

Attention, pilots flying around Northern Michigan: if you happen to own a red, single-engine seaplane, chances are good the FAA may be coming around to speak with you shortly.

That's because witnesses report two red, pontoon-equipped aircraft flew under the Mackinac Bridge Monday afternoon -- a no-no as far as the FAA is concerned.

The incident is the third one reported this summer, reports WPBN-7 in Traverse City. A pilot caught flying his or her plane under a bridge faces the loss of their flying privileges, and a possible fine.

"The Mighty Mac" is, admittedly, a tempting target for such activities. In 1959, USAF Captain John Lappo, a decorated Korean War veteran, flew his RB-47E Stratojet under the bridge -- and lost his flying privileges as a result.

The third-longest suspension bridge in the US -- and 10th worldwide -- the Mackinac Bridge spans the Straits of Mackinac to connect the non-contiguous Upper and Lower peninsulas of Michigan.

The bridge recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

FMI: www.mackinacbridge.org, www.faa.gov, www.b-29s-over-korea.com/John_S_Lappo/John_S_Lappo1.html