Over time, dozens of incidents of incredible aircraft landings, whether successful or not, have been recorded. At times, dozens of pilots have shown Olympian temper and have saved hundreds of lives from destruction and death. But the temper and abilities of Flight Lieutenant William Mahoney of the U.S. Air Force are beyond imagination.

The fighter pilot of a AV-8B Harrier took off from aircraft carrier USS Bataan for a planned exercised, when he immediately realized that the aircraft had a problem. In fact, the folding system of the front wheel had collapsed.

Everyone’s reaction was immediate, as is the case on most warships. The experienced pilot took turns around the ship to “burn” fuel while he gave time to the technical board to fit aboard a sort of giant “stool”, a DIY invention which is supposed to serve as a support for the nose of the airplane. Provided, of course, that the pilot managed to bring his aircraft in line with the…stool.

He ended up managing it without even having sight of the stool, and taking advantage of the Harrier’s VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) systems from 300 feet, to 20, when he just let it go and the jet bounced gently on the aircraft carrier, with the nose snuggly fitting in the stool.

This unlikely move saved the 52,000,000 USD jet from crashing and also became an internet sensation, where the video of his effort has gone viral.