July 8, 1965: Paul Mantz is Killed in a Tragic Accident

[aerovin]

July 8th marks the 60th anniversary of the tragic death of Hollywood pilot Paul Mantz. He was killed in the early morning hours just west of Yuma, Arizona, while filming a scene during the production of "Flight of the Phoenix." The intent was to depict the takeoff of the "Phoenix" from the desert floor, and it required Mantz to make a low approach to begin the takeoff scene. The cobbled-together 'Phoenix" was barely controllable and very difficult to fly. Nonetheless, Mantz had done the shot at least once to the filmmakers' satisfaction on the first takes, but was requested to make one more pass, during which the "Phoenix" unexpectedly hit the ground hard and bounced, breaking a previously damaged joint between the metal center section and the aft wood section of the fuselage. The airplane tumbled across the desert, cameras still rolling, with Mantz killed instantly and a stunt man badly injured.

The dramatic accident is well-documented and available to be seen on YouTube. (Search "Paul Mantz Accident")

A sad day for aviation.

A detailed story of the "Phoenix" and that day is here: https://www.aerovintage.com/tallmantz-aviation/last-flight-of-the-phoenix/

[Pat Carry]

Thanks for the info Scott.

[JohnB]

Scott, thanks for the reminder.
As you say, it was a sad day for aviation and the film industry.

I'd recommend Scott's website as the best source for the history of Mantz, Frank Tallman and their organization's work.
I do appreciate him including my research and comments on Mantz's blood alcohol level in his Phoenix section. I'm proud to offer another theory on the topic, I'd hate to see Mantz's legacy sullied by incorrect assumptions on whether he was impaired that morning.

Most film viewers don't appreciate the skills required and the dangers faced in getting aerial images for the films we enjoy.
The other night I was viewing Only Angles Have Wings and appreciated the scenes of the flight to the remote mine.
And although you don't see Mantz's aircraft, I'm always impressed with the long takeoff scene of the B-36 at the beginning of Strategic Air Command. It took a lot of skill to position the B-25 camera ship just off the '36's wing.

Last edited by JohnB on Wed Jul 09, 2025 11:50 pm, edited 1 time in total.

[L-188]

I must have watched Strategic Air Command 100 times and I still rewind that takeoff scene.

[junkman9096]

Kinda/sorta related. Life Magazine did a spread on Paul Mantz (misspelled on their index) of his post-war racing activities. It's quite interesting.
https://images.google.com/hosted/life/4 ... c8089.html