Pilot Uninjured, Tuskegee Exhibit Continues

On November 4, a Commemorative Air Force P-51 Mustang on tour with the Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit ran off the runway at Tallahassee International Airport, Florida. According to reports after the incident, the Mustang had been in the landing roll when it strayed into the grass. 

Tallahassee Deputy Director of Aviation Jim Durwin said the pilot was uninjured and no fire or fuel leaks occurred following the impact. "It basically went off the runway and came to rest on the side of the runway. There appears to be some damage to the landing gear," Durwin said, "It's in one piece." 

The incident resulted in a closure for the runway, closing off access for commercial air traffic in or out of the airport for 4 long hours while a crane was brought in to remove the plane and clear the runway.Durwin said officials had been in contact with FAA and NTSB officials to clear the move and reopen as soon as possible. 

The aircraft was in Tallahassee as part of The Rise Above Traveling Exhibit, billed as "a unique opportunity for the young and the young-at-heart to learn and experience the inspiring story of the Tuskegee Airmen while being immersed in a theatrical experience." The Red Tail P-51C will be on static display for the rest of the exhibition as planned. The Commemorative Air Force will have their mobile big screen theater, custom 160-degree panoramic screen to showcase their original movie, Rise Above, about the trials and triumphs of the Red Tail Airmen.

FMI: www.commemorativeairforce.org