Collings Me 262 incident

[Chris Kennedy]

There are stories on the web saying that the Collings Me 262 crashed in Midland, TX.

This is from somebody who knows.

The ME262 did NOT crash at Midland. The rear canopy separated from the aircraft on takeoff but prior to rotation. Damage is minor and repairs are being assessed now. There were no injuries.

[Chris Kennedy]

Statement from the Collings Foundation:

You might see some information regarding the Me 262:
I would like to take the opportunity to correct some of the information in the press release and add some facts regarding the incident at Midland Airport.

The Me 262 operated by the Collings Foundation was not involved in a crash. The aircraft did not have the rear canopy properly secured by the pilot occupying the rear seat. This was an oversight caused by his closing the canopy early due to wind and cold temperatures while securing himself in the aircraft. Due to the latch not being secured the rear canopy did depart the aircraft on takeoff. The pilot in command aborted the takeoff and the aircraft never left the ground. The aircraft has no damage aside of superficial damage to the canopy and a scratch on the fuselage. Both pilots are uninjured.

Again it is important to stress that this was not a crash, but an incident involving a canopy departing the aircraft while it was still on the ground.

Thank you for your understanding.

Regards,

Rob Collings

[Chris Kennedy]

Here's what it looked like after the incident.