Del Schulte dies in fatal Tehama County plane crash

Del Schulte dies in fatal Tehama County plane crash

Fatal Tehama County plane crash death of Del Schulte – Obituary

The aviation community is mourning the loss of Del Schulte, a respected pilot who tragically died in a plane crash on Tuesday, southwest of Cottonwood on Phyllis Road. Schulte was known for his work as both an instructor and a designated plane examiner (DPE), and his passing has left a deep void among fellow aviators.

Ron Lim, a Redding-based pilot, shared his shock and sorrow following the news. “There’s a lot of pilots up here who are really upset,” Lim remarked. He fondly recalled Schulte’s significant role in training new pilots and his expertise in conducting check rides for those pursuing their flying licenses.

Schulte’s contributions to the community extended beyond instruction. He served as a spotter for Cal Fire, helping to assess areas impacted by wildfires before water drops took place. Lim described him as a “pilot’s pilot,” a term that speaks to Schulte’s exemplary skills and his well-regarded presence in the local aviation scene.

The tight-knit flying community at Benton Air Park, where Schulte frequently flew, has been devastated by the loss. “When I heard it was him, it was a shocker,” said Lim. “He was a friend to everybody, just a huge loss.”

As of now, the cause of the crash has not been released by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Schulte is survived by his children, who are now left to cope with the sudden and tragic loss.