Airline Worker Stole Plane, Performed Stunts Before Crashing

In August 2018, a shocking incident occurred where an airline employee stole a plane and performed daring aerial stunts for over an hour before crashing. Richard Russell, then a 29-year-old ground service agent for Horizon Air, stole a Bombardier Q400 aircraft from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and embarked on the dangerous flight, showcasing aerobatic maneuvers including a barrel roll.

He ultimately crashed and died on Ketron Island.

In his final conversations with air traffic controllers, Richard Russell communicated alone and apologized. The documentary '#SKYKING', produced by ABC News Studios, covers this incident. Director Patricia E. Gillespie stated that details about Russell's work and wages in the air traffic control transcripts compelled her to investigate further.