About This True Story
THE ACCIDENT, RESCUE, and RECOVERY
“Flying With Wings: A True Story of an Alaska Aircraft Accident” recounts the experiences of the victims and survivors of a 1994 crash of a Wings of Alaska floatplane in the icy waters of the Taku River. Seven passengers lost their lives in what was supposed to be a fun-filled glacier flightseeing adventure to a remote historic lodge.
The story details the causes and events leading to the tragic loss of life. It also recounts the rescue of the survivors by the Wings of Alaska company pilots, the extensive search and recovery of the missing aircraft and the struggles of the victims’ families, survivors and Wings employees in response to the tragedy and its aftermath. “Flying With Wings” is also a story of compassion, healing, forgiveness and hope inspired, in part, by a survivor who came back to Alaska 20 years after losing her mother and two young children in the accident. The threads that tie her, her fellow passengers, the company, its owners and employees come together in this tale of heroism, strength and faith.
The book honestly explores the root cause behind the accident - a cause that was overlooked by governmental authorities more focused on assigning blame than exploring all the factors leading to the crash and improving safety.
A purpose in its telling is to help prevent the far-too-many aviation accidents still happening across Alaska and the United States.
"Tragedy can strike anyone at any time. How we respond may determine how we feel the rest of our life. 'Flying with Wings' offers guidance and hope."
Laurie Ferguson Craig, Artist
