Incident Details
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and investigating police agencies, an airplane was stolen from its owner's locked hangar on September 29, 2009. The unauthorized flight came to light when the aircraft was discovered two days later in a clear cut area. The circumstances surrounding the theft and the identity of the pilot responsible have not been determined.
Discovery and Condition
The airplane was located in a clear cut, where it had sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. Examination of the cockpit revealed that the flaps were extended, and both the mixture control and throttle controls had been pulled aft. The extent of the damage and the state of the controls indicate the aircraft was operated in an unconventional manner prior to its discovery.
Investigation
As of the investigation's status at the time of reporting, the pilot has not been located or identified. The purpose of the unauthorized flight remains unknown. The FAA and local law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the incident, but no further details have been released. The owner of the hangar has been cooperating with authorities.