Widow Sues Google’s Sergey Brin and Company for Pilot’s Death in Plane Crash En Route to Fiji

A lawsuit has been initiated against Google co-founder Sergey Brin and Alphabet Inc., alongside others, by the widow of a pilot who tragically died while operating one of Brin’s aircraft. The flight was headed to Brin’s private island in Fiji from Santa Rosa last year but met with a disastrous end in the Pacific Ocean.

Filed in Santa Clara County, California, the lawsuit contends that the $8 million twin-engine seaplane was inadequately equipped with an auxiliary fuel tank. This malfunctioned during the flight on May 20, leading to a critical emergency that necessitated a return to California. Unfortunately, the aircraft crashed near Half Moon Bay, resulting in the deaths of pilots Lance Maclean and Dean Rushfeldt.

The legal action implicates Google, which reportedly co-owned the aircraft, the maintenance company responsible for the fuel system installation, and the firm that employed the pilots. It accuses Brin of attempting to hinder evidence recovery at the crash site.

Maria Magdalena Olarte, Maclean’s widow, through her legal representatives, emphasized Brin’s capability to facilitate the aircraft and victims’ recovery, highlighting his significant wealth.

The complaint reveals the aircraft, a Viking Air Ltd. DHC-6 Twin Otter Series 400, was being transported for Brin’s leisure activities, including island hopping for his guests. Allegations suggest the plane lacked adequate fuel capacity for its journey to Fiji, prompting the unauthorized installation of an auxiliary fuel system that ultimately failed.

Following the crash, Brin purportedly vowed to support the recovery efforts but was accused of delaying and obstructing them. The lawsuit further accuses Brin’s team of misleading communications regarding the recovery efforts and conditions.

This case, Maria Magdalena Olarte et al. v. Theodore Neale et al., raises serious questions about the responsibilities of aircraft owners and the integrity of post-accident actions, marking a poignant moment in aviation litigation.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, fortune.com