Late last night, we received an email from U.S. Air Force Combat Controller Ron Walker, who wrote to share an incredible story about his iPhone 4.
Airman Walker's duties as a jump master require him to ensure that his aircraft is the the proper location before sending parachute jumpers into the air. One week ago (on March 16), he stuck his body out of the open door to look for landmarks as the plane sped through the air at 130 knots (about 150 m.p.h.). As he did, the Velcro seal on his pocket flew open, and out popped his iPhone. Airman Walker could do nothing but watch it fall away from the plane; he assumed it was lost forever, not to mention destroyed by the fall.
Later, he shared his story with colleagues on the ground, one of whom installed the Find My iPhone app on his iPhone. Within minutes the app found the wayward phone, and Airman Walker and his buddy hopped on ATVs and tracked it down in a wooded area about 2 miles away.
Not only was the iPhone undamaged, Airman Walker reports, it was in perfect working order -- 'not a scratch on it, not even dirty.'
The phone was wearing a Griffin case at the time of its unexpected journey, but no special aerodynamic protection.
Thanks to Airman Walker for sharing his story. We're glad it turned out so well. Next time, however, make sure the iPhone is wearing a parachute and carrying a flare gun.
[Airman Walker also shared his story separately with iLounge.]
iPhone 4 survives 1,000 foot fall from airplane originally appeared on TUAW on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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