To be fair, John Denver ran out of gas - a rather avoidable condition. Weather impacts small planes more than large ones, and can be a critical factor if one is pushing to get somewhere when conditions are iffy. Many Air Force pilots also fly small planes. I agree that pilot training - and temperament - are crucial. Like that old saying - there are old pilots and bold pilots, but there are no old bold pilots.
How's the boat, dmc? Hope you found a great one! I know absolutely nothing about boats, but really enjoy looking at and riding in them - as long as I have a life jacket, since I float like a rock. . .