Mims, FL (June 15, 2026) – A 63-year-old man lost his life after an airboat collision on Loughman Lake in Brevard County on Saturday evening.
The person was identified as Bobby Knost, business manager of Union Ironworkers Local 808. Family members said the collision happened at about 5 p.m. on June 13, while he was riding a Diamondback airboat alone on the lake.
Knost was located after the collision and was pronounced dead. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said the case remains under review, with additional testing planned to determine the exact cause of death.
Knost was known as an avid airboat rider and was a longtime union leader representing metal workers in Central Florida. The investigation into the fatal accident continues.
We extend our deepest condolences to Bobby Knost’s family, friends, and colleagues.
What Safety Factors Are Considered in Airboat Travel?
Airboats are designed for travel across shallow waterways and use a large fan system to move across surfaces where traditional boats may not operate easily. Because they can travel in open water and marsh areas, operators must remain aware of changing conditions, obstacles, and their surroundings.
Safety practices usually include wearing protective equipment, properly maintaining the vessel, and following boating regulations. Speed, visibility, weather, and water conditions can influence how safely an airboat can be operated. Riders may also need to consider the layout of a waterway and potential hazards that are not always easy to see from the surface. Proper preparation and careful operation can help reduce risks during recreational and work-related boating activities.
