Staff Reports
An Alaskan adventure turned precarious jaunt reminds everyone that not all who wander are lost… but some, like one particularly reckless pilot, might just take the wrong turn. While moderate weather brings the promise of warmer days, it can’t overshadow the sheer lunacy of a man who thought it’d be a stellar idea to take his underage daughters up in a plane without the necessary qualifications.
In an area ripe with majestic landscapes and pristine lakes, a family found themselves in a pickle onboard a Piper PA-12 Super Cruiser that, unsurprisingly, ended up on thin ice—literally. Reports indicate that the plane vanished on a Sunday evening and the search kicked off at dawn, highlighting the dedication of local authorities and a good Samaritan who went above and beyond to locate the downed aircraft. As luck would have it, they were found on Tustumena Lake, where the only guarantee is that ice will melt, not necessarily ensure a safe landing.
The Alaska Army National Guard swooped in and, thankfully, rescued the adult male pilot and his daughters, both of whom were fortunate enough to evade serious injury. They received treatment for minor issues, which is a relief. However, while the physical safety of the family is a huge win, the circumstances surrounding their flight showcase an alarming disregard for aviation regulations. The pilot, identified as John Morris Jr., apparently failed to register his flight and, let’s not forget, was still acquiring his pilot’s credentials.
Alaska Man Monday – Possible Disaster Averted, and an Infamous Scoundrel https://t.co/9DMVfYwqSw
— Ward Clark (@TheGreatLander) March 31, 2025
Despite being just a student pilot, Morris took his daughters for a joyride and placed them in a precarious situation with questionable judgment. The National Transportation Safety Board has cleared the way for a rapid dismissal of the case, claiming they wouldn’t bother conducting an investigation as there was no “significant damage” or egregious consequences. Yet, that leaves the question of whether this pilot will face any repercussions for his blatant rule-breaking.
This incident serves as a stern reminder that flying isn’t just about taking off with the wind in your hair; it requires skills, steep learning curves, and, most importantly, responsibility. The classic adage rings true: there are old pilots, there are bold pilots, but no one should aspire to be an inexperienced pilot carrying passengers, especially minors. One can only wonder if Morris learned his lesson or if he’ll write off this close call as a thrilling adventure—waiting to see how many moose nuggets he’s willing to gamble with next time.
Meanwhile, in an age where the radical left seems determined to strip every ounce of freedom away from individuals, it’s critical to remember that self-reliance and personal accountability should reign supreme. In Alaska, where rugged terrain meets rugged individuals, it’s imperative that stories like this one serve not just as a cautionary tale, but also as a celebration of the values that keep Alaskans strong and self-sufficient. As the warm winds blow across the state, let’s hope this pilot learns the hard way not to tempt fate with a lack of expertise or judgment.
