35 Facts About Lynyrd Skynyrd Plane Crash

The Tragic Event

The Lynyrd Skynyrd plane crash remains one of rock music's most tragic events. On October 20, 1977, the band's plane went down, leading to the loss of several lives and altering the course of rock history forever. Here are some compelling facts about that fateful day.

1. The plane was a Convair CV-240, a twin-engine propeller-driven aircraft.
2. The crash occurred in a wooded area near Gillsburg, Mississippi.
3. The band was en route from Greenville, South Carolina, to Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
4. Lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup singer Cassie Gaines died in the crash.
5. The crash also claimed the lives of assistant road manager Dean Kilpatrick, pilot Walter McCreary, and co-pilot William Gray.
6. The plane ran out of fuel, leading to the crash.
7. Several band members survived, including guitarist Gary Rossington and keyboardist Billy Powell.
8. The crash happened just three days after the release of their fifth album, "Street Survivors."
9. The album cover was changed after the crash, removing the image of the band surrounded by flames.
10. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigated the crash and found that the pilots had miscalculated the amount of fuel needed for the flight.

The Aftermath

The aftermath of the crash was devastating for the band and their fans. The surviving members faced physical and emotional challenges, and the music world mourned the loss of talented artists.

11. Gary Rossington suffered multiple broken bones and internal injuries.
12. Billy Powell had severe facial lacerations and nearly lost his nose.
13. Artimus Pyle, the drummer, managed to walk to a nearby farmhouse to get help.
14. The crash site became a place of pilgrimage for fans.
15. Lynyrd Skynyrd disbanded after the crash but later reformed in 1987 with Ronnie Van Zant's younger brother, Johnny, as the lead vocalist.
16. The reformed band continues to tour and record music.
17. The crash inspired several songs, including "Free Bird" and "That Smell."
18. The band's legacy lives on, with their music still popular today.
19. In 2006, Lynyrd Skynyrd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
20. The crash is often cited as one of the most significant events in rock history.

The Plane and Its History

The Convair CV-240 had a storied past before it became the ill-fated aircraft for Lynyrd Skynyrd. Understanding its history provides more context to the tragic event.

21. The plane was built in 1947 and had been used by various airlines before being converted for private use.
22. It had a history of mechanical issues, including engine problems.
23. Aerosmith had considered using the same plane earlier in 1977 but decided against it due to safety concerns.
24. The plane was owned by L&J Company, which leased it to Lynyrd Skynyrd.
25. The pilots were experienced but had limited knowledge of the plane's quirks.

The Investigation

The investigation into the crash revealed several critical details about what went wrong and how it could have been prevented.

26. The NTSB report highlighted fuel exhaustion as the primary cause of the crash.
27. The pilots failed to monitor the fuel levels accurately.
28. There were no mechanical failures that directly caused the crash.
29. The plane's fuel gauges were found to be faulty.
30. The pilots attempted an emergency landing but couldn't reach a suitable location.

Legacy and Remembrance

The legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd and the crash continues to be remembered by fans and the music community. Memorials and tributes keep the memory of the band and those lost alive.

31. A memorial was erected at the crash site in Gillsburg, Mississippi.
32. Fans gather annually at the site to pay their respects.
33. The band's music is still celebrated, with "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird" remaining iconic songs.
34. Documentaries and books have been produced to tell the story of the band and the crash.
35. The crash serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of music.

Reflecting on the Lynyrd Skynyrd Plane Crash

The Lynyrd Skynyrd plane crash remains one of rock music's most tragic events. On October 20, 1977, the crash claimed the lives of Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines, and Cassie Gaines, among others. This catastrophe not only ended lives but also marked a significant moment in music history. The band's legacy, however, continues to thrive. Their music still resonates with fans old and new, proving that their spirit lives on. The crash serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of music. Lynyrd Skynyrd's story is one of talent, tragedy, and timeless influence. As we remember the band and their contributions, we honor their memory by keeping their music alive.