Before the tragic plane crash, a cherished CBS meteorologist and aviation instructor expressed his deep love for flying to students. He hoped they would eventually share that same passion.
Roland Stedham, 67, who served as the chief meteorologist for CBS2 in Boise, had recently visited an aviation class at the Payette River Regional Technical Academy in Emmett. According to reports, he emphasized his enjoyment of flying to the students during his visit.
Jim Baker, the class instructor, recounted that Stedham’s last words before departing were, “I’ve enjoyed flying for all these years…it’s been great…and I wholeheartedly encourage you to pursue aviation.”
Those sentiments highlighted his belief in the importance of experiencing the world from above. Baker shared that Stedham’s final message to the students was about the beauty of seeing things from a different perspective.
On Tuesday, Stedham and his co-pilot, Darin Laufenberg, were piloting a small aircraft when tragedy struck. Their plane got caught in a power line, ultimately crashing into a remote area near the Payette River, where it sank into the frigid waters.
Andrew George, president of the Idaho Aviation Association, remembered Stedham as someone who was passionately dedicated to teaching others about flying. He frequently shared insights on his popular YouTube channel.
George mentioned, “Roland was willing to teach anyone about flying, weather, and life in general any chance he got,” pointing out Stedham’s tendency to mentor aspiring aviators.
“I think he and Darin were just out there that day to enjoy the clear winter skies,” he added, reflecting on the nature of aviation accidents and the loss felt by the community when experienced pilots like Stedham are involved.
Baker expressed astonishment upon hearing about the crash, emphasizing the tight-knit community among local aviators. He recalled that Stedham often shared his passion for aviation and weather concepts in their classes.
“I like to think of him as a familiar presence, always capturing great footage for weather reports and sharing it with everyone,” the teacher noted.
The Gem County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.
