Highlights
- Bob Sauer, an Oregon physics teacher, discovers a missing airplane part in his backyard.
- The unexpected aviation incident involved a mid-cabin door plug from an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9.
- Sauer’s encounter highlights the rare intersection of civilian life and aviation safety.
In a remarkable and unexpected aviation incident, Bob Sauer, an Oregon physics teacher, discovered a missing airplane part, specifically a mid-cabin door plug, from an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 in his backyard. This unusual event serves as a reminder of the unexpected ways in which aviation can impact everyday life.
Sauer was tipped off about the possibility of finding aircraft debris in his area by his ex-wife, who had heard about the incident. This led to his surprising discovery of the door plug, a significant aircraft component, nestled against a cedar tree in his yard. The incident was an extraordinary convergence of Sauer’s routine life with a significant aviation event.
Upon finding the part, Sauer promptly contacted the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), who retrieved the door plug. In recognition of his efforts, the NTSB presented Sauer with a commemorative medallion. The incident became a point of discussion and learning in Sauer’s classroom, where he used it to explain the physics of terminal velocity and the unexpected nature of such events.
This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of aviation incidents and the important role civilians can play in them. Sauer’s quick thinking and actions exemplify how public awareness and responsiveness can be crucial in aviation safety and investigation.