Richard Russell
Definition
Richard Russell (1989–2018), popularly known as 'Sky King' or 'Beebo Russell', was a 28-year-old Horizon Air ground service agent who stole a Bombardier Q400 aircraft from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport on August 10, 2018, performed unauthorized aerobatics including a barrel roll, and intentionally crashed it on Ketron Island in a suicide.
He has achieved folk hero status in internet culture, spawning memes, tributes, songs, and discussions on mental health and the allure of escape.
Examples
Richard Russell's barrel roll redefined the term 'quitting on a high note' for aviation enthusiasts.
In online lore, Richard Russell is the patron saint of impulsive joyrides and existential barrel rolls.
Richard Russell proved that with enough audacity, even a ground crew badge can unlock the cockpit of destiny.
Memes about Richard Russell remind us that sometimes the sky's the limit, especially when you're not coming back.