[4K] L-39 LOSES ITS CANOPY at AirVenture 2023!

While we were filming departures at AirVenture 2023, we managed to capture this L-39's canopy flying off during departure! No one was injured, and the aircraft later continued on to its destination.

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Equipment used:
Sony RX10 IV
Sennheiser MKE 400
Manfrotto 190X Tripod with MV502AH Fluid Head

[Nomorewokek]

The switch to convertible is really impressive.

[intrepid_Crossing]

The takeoff roll was still perfectly executed. Not even a stutter. A perfect example of the first rule of any emergency, "fly the plane"

[hghalpha]

I was in the black and green Pitts waiting to depart. Glad he was able to keep calm and bring it around to land safely.

[billwelter]

Good piloting! He kept his cool, didnt abort the takeoff, didnt get rattled, just "flew the plane". The canopy looked in pretty good shape too!

[trout]

The Ventilation Dial on that thing apparently goes up to 11.

[GeneralChangFromDanang]

I think you're supposed to stand it up next to a sign so the pilot can see it next time he comes through there.

[Ymanz]

I honestly thought this was DCS! Especially with the digital camo on the Tailplane in the thumbnail.
Good flying.
Even better camera work!

[DavidLee-xztl]

Paying tribute to the forerunners of WWI and the feel of the air

[ghost]

Trying to return and land quietly hoping that nobody noticed...

[LisbonAirportSpotting]

Nice video! Great pilot for this recovery 🫡

[scottxs]

Canopy not locked, great recovery by the pilot

[michaelschulz]

All those open cockpit airplanes look like a lot of fun. Maybe I should try

[Leo-fkch]

During a war bird training/flight experience in southern Calif, flying the L39, I remember the discussion about the canopy. Main thing was of course locking, unlock. There was a thorough briefing about the canopy failing in flight. I was instructed that at speeds of 200 kts and below, full control authority is available. So, upon departure and in the pattern to land this should be a non event.

[UKAviationMovies]

Woah! I had an Mazda MX-5 once that did that 😅 Great catch. Thanks for sharing 👌👌👌

[LoveFlyKAP]

Always remember to Fly the plane, Fly the plane and Fly the plane! Good job!

[PhantomMark]

Looks like it was still serviceable as well !! lucky

[Ed-hzum]

Not the first time this has happened and probably not the last. I replaced another owner's canopy 4 years ago after this same kind of incident at an airshow. These canopies are ejectable, so they're only held in place by 4 jaw clamps.Check that canopy lock before takeoff!

[jeremymurphy]

my flight instructor use to tell me no matter what happens always fly the airplane. Aviate, navigate and then communicate. This pilot did an amazing job at not being rattled during takeoff when the canopy broke free.

[wayneroyal]

Nice work, he was committed to go flying and executed the plan. Be prepared for what could happen. Good job

[JamesHoffman-ob]

He did the right thing, continued to fly the aircraft.