A GEICO Skytypers SNJ crashed on takeoff Friday as the team prepared for a practice demonstration at the Great Pocono Raceway Airshow. Airshow News received the following statement from the GEICO Skytypers:

“There was a fatal accident at approximately 12:36 p.m. on August 20th with the number three aircraft of the GEICO Skytypers Air Show Team as it was departing the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Airport in Avoca, PA. Teammate Andy Travnicek was the pilot involved and sole occupant. There were no injuries on the ground. Andy was a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, served in the U.S. Armed Forces, and was also a commercial airline pilot.  

A thorough investigation is already underway. The team is working with local law enforcement, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Transportation Safety Board . Our thoughts and prayers are with Andy and his family at this time.”

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the GEICO Skytypers as well as Andy’s friends and family.