December 20, 1999--Goo Press Release: GOO GOO DOLLS INVOLVED IN AIRPLANE MISHAP IN ITALY. Popular recording artists the Goo Goo Dolls were involved in an aircraft mishap today when their military flight skidded off the runway in severe weather conditions at Naval Air Station Sigonella in Sicily at approximately 3PM (EST.) The group, their crew and several other passengers were returning from Bosnia, where the band had just performed for soldiers and other military personnel at Tuzla Army Base. Bosnia was the last stop on the band's European military "Christmas Tour" which saw them play to thousands of American service men and women. The U. S. Naval-operated DC-9 attempted two landing approaches in severe rain, wind and lightning conditions before touching down on the third attempt. The plane skidded off the runway and slid back on again, causing damage to the aircraft's landing gear and wing. Quick thinking air crew opened hatches and all passengers exited emergency chutes onto the runway. Military fire and ambulance personnel were immediately dispatched and the threat of serious passenger injury and further equipment damage was averted. For the approximately 30 "very frightened" passengers on board, no serious injuries were reported other than bumps and bruises. Although the weather conditions were a factor, base officials stated that a full investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the mishap. "We were relieved that the band and other passengers were uninjured," said Lieutenant Cappy Surette, base spokesman. "Our sailors and their families greatly appreciated the band taking the time to play for us and we want to see them get home safely." The Goo Goo Dolls look forward to playing live in New York's Times Square for MTV's Millenium celebration this New Year's Eve!
