Introduction to Grand Canyon Aviation Archaeology
The Grand Canyon National Park in Northern Arizona extends over 277 miles in length, 18 miles wide, and has a depth of over one mile (6,000 feet). With extreme changes in elevation, climate, and topography, the canyon presents considerable challenges for any type of archaeological research or exploration. In addition, the Colorado River flowing through the bottom of the canyon creates a formidable barrier that further restricts foot travel.
The history of aviation in the Grand Canyon region began in 1922 when R.V. Thomas landed a Standard bi-plane on Plateau Point nearly 3,000 feet below the rim of the canyon. Soon after, commercial air tours began to operate from an air strip located near Red Butte on the canyon's south rim. During the 1940's and 50's, airlines operating coast to coast flights utilized routes that crossed over vast scenic stretches of the canyon.
In 1967, a new airport was built 7 miles from the south rim. The Grand Canyon National Park Airport remains one of the busiest airports in the state of Arizona catering to commercial, military and civilian air traffic. Today, Grand Canyon National Park Airport and Grand Canyon West Airport operated by the Hualapai Indian Nation are the main air travel hubs in the region.
Over the years, Grand Canyon has become a popular international attraction and destination and because of this, when an aircraft accident does occur (particularly air tour aircraft), it garners the top news story worldwide. Without regard to technical research, the news media and environmental groups often portray aircraft accidents at Grand Canyon as "mysterious" and "sinister". The causes have ranged from pilot error to mechanical failure or a combination of both. The vertical topography, thin high altitude air, and sudden adverse changes in weather have all contributed to many of these mishaps. To be positive though, most of the accidents have been survivable and with increased air space regulation and advances in air safety technology, the accident rate at Grand Canyon has been reduced dramatically.
I have included this special section of aviation archaeology on this website to profile this unique area which is unlike any other place in the world. The introduction of early aviation pioneers and often tragic aircraft accidents that have taken place here all leave behind a legacy of history. A resource often overlooked that needs to be preserved.
Thank you for visiting.
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK AIRPORT
The Grand Canyon National Park Airport first opened in 1967 and serves many commercial air tour and air charter companies.
The elevation of the airport rises 6,600 feet above sea level. The terrain rises to the south and north of the airport and trees encompass the entire airport perimeter. On very warm days, the density altitude can increase to over 10,000 feet.
On dark moonless nights, the area surrounding the airport has few lights and visual references which can cause spatial disorientation to inexperienced pilots.
July 28, 2012
This Cessna 172 ended up on it's back after the pilot attempted a go-around from an aborted landing. Poor flying technique combined with high density altitude conditions resulted in a crash. Minor injuries for the two on board.
October 10, 1989:
This airplane, a Cessna T207A (N7602U) was flying a scenic tour with two passengers when there was a loss of engine power. The pilot switched fuel tanks to the fullest tank and power was regained momentarily. Suddenly the engine stopped and the aircraft glided to a hard, but survivable crash landing.
An internal examination of the engine by the NTSB revealed that the engine crankshaft had sheared.
