SeaRey Amphib's Landing Gear Tangles With Powerlines On Airport Approach

ANN REALTIME Update, 09.01.12, 2331 ET: James Bach is now reporting that Richard's condition has improved and that his prognosis is "guardedly optimistic."

Original Report: Aviation author, Richard Bach, has been critically injured in an approach to landing accident while flying an Amateur Built-Experimental SeaRey Amphib (file photos, below) he purchased earlier this year.

According to media reports, Richard went down while approaching a grass strip on San Juan Island and caught powerlines with the gear. Bach's injuries required his removal to Seattle where he is under the care of physicians at Harborview Medical Center. Media reports indicate that Bach is in critical but stable condition with little additional medical detail other than reports of his suffering a head injury and a broken shoulder.

The aircraft's impact was considerable and the bird was found upside about two miles from Friday Harbor. Several of the power poles supporting the lines the aircraft hit were pulled down a small grass fire ensued.

Bach, 76, is the author of some of the aviation world's favorite books, especially "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" and "Illusions: the Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah." A long time pilot, Bach has extensive experience in a number of piston and jet powered aircraft and purchased the SeaRey this year after an extensive checkout at the Progressive Aerodyne HQ in Tavares, FL.

James Bach, Richard's son, said his Father was flying solo and that he and his Doctors are hopeful for a full recovery. "Right now we're waiting for the sedation to wear off, for him to fully wake up," said James.

We'll keep you updated... and wish Richard a swift return to good health and the ability to enjoy his life-long love affair with aviation.

FMI: www.richardbach.com