Ep 140 - Foggy with a Chance of Disaster: When Planes Hit Buildings in NYC

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In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the fascinating and often tragic history of aviation disasters in New York City. From the shocking crash of a B-52 Mitchell bomber into the Empire State Building to the ill-fated flight of New York Yankees pitcher Corey Liddell, these stories are as harrowing as they are enlightening.

The episode kicks off with a discussion about Corey Liddell, a pitcher for the New York Yankees, who tragically crashed his small plane into an apartment building on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in 2006. Liddell, along with his flight instructor, perished in the crash, which also caused injuries to residents of the building but, miraculously, no fatalities on the ground. This incident sparked a conversation about the dangers of small aircraft and the regulations that followed to prevent such tragedies.

We then move back in time to explore the history of New York Airways, a helicopter service that operated from 1949 to 1979. This service provided quick commutes between Manhattan and local airports, but it was plagued by several accidents. One of the most notable was a crash on the roof of the Pan Am Building (now the MetLife Building) in 1977, where a helicopter tipped over, killing five people on the roof and one person on the ground. This incident led to the cessation of helicopter services from the Pan Am Building.

The episode also covers two significant crashes from the 1940s. In 1945, a B-52 Mitchell bomber crashed into the Empire State Building in dense fog, killing 14 people. The crash caused significant damage but did not compromise the building's structural integrity. Another crash in 1946 involved a US Air Force Beechcraft hitting 40 Wall Street, which led to regulations prohibiting flights over New York City in heavy fog.

One of the most remarkable stories we discuss is that of Betty Lou Oliver, an elevator operator in the Empire State Building who survived a 75-floor free fall after the plane crash. Her survival is a testament to the unexpected ways people can endure even the most catastrophic events.

These stories are not just about tragedy; they are about the resilience of New York City and the lessons learned from each incident. The changes in aviation regulations and safety measures implemented after these crashes have made the skies safer for everyone.

Tune in to our latest episode to hear these incredible stories and more. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or just love a good historical tale, this episode is sure to captivate you. Listen now and join us as we explore the skies of New York City and the stories that have shaped its history.