Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will welcome Captain Don Baier—veteran pilot of American Airlines, US Airways, and the United States Air Force—for an upcoming Aviation History Speaking Series event titled ‘Crash of the Constellation’.
The presentation, free and open to the public, will take place Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Davis Learning Center (DLC) Auditorium at Embry-Riddle. Community members are invited to explore this chapter of local aviation history.
On a clear winter’s day in February 1959, a USAF C-121G Super Constellation crashed in the Granite Dells of Prescott, Arizona. Drawing on thousands of hours of flight experience, accident investigation expertise and nearly two decades of service with the Airline Pilots Association, Baier will examine what is known—and what remains unknown—about the incident. His talk will highlight events onboard the aircraft, the location of the wreckage and the memorial trail honoring those who lost their lives.
With more than 19,000 hours of jet aircraft experience, Baier is qualified in functional check flights, evaluation and worldwide operations. He is an Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Laureate and Master Facilitator at Yavapai College, and has served for 34 years as a docent at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.
For more information, contact event coordinator Chris Walton at waltonc1@erau.edu or 928-777-6960. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with a defining story of Prescott’s aviation past.
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1 thought on “Embry-Riddle Hosts Aviation History Presentation: ‘Crash of the Constellation’ with Captain Don Baier”
I recently received a donation request from President Dwight Eisenhower’s granddaughter. She is heading up a restoration of her grandfathers and the very first Air Force One; a Super G constellation formerly a USAF C-121 G.
GOOGLE for information and join in the restoration project.
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