The CEO of the tourist submersible that went missing with five people on board spoke in an interview last year expressing his concerns about the voyage but ultimately insisted that the mission was safe.
Stockton Rush, the CEO of OceanGate Expeditions, was part of a crew of five individuals, including French explorer PH Nargeolet and Hamish Harding, who embarked on a $250,000 per person Titanic tour that ventured 12,500 feet underwater. Unfortunately, the crew lost communication with the mothership just one hour and 45 minutes after launching.
In a previous interview, Rush repeatedly emphasized the safety and preparedness of the explorers, assuring that they had the necessary oxygen to survive. However, he also acknowledged the risks involved.
While discussing safety, Rush stated, “You know, there’s a limit. You know, at some point, safety just is pure waste. I mean, if you just want to be safe, don’t get out of bed.” He further expressed his belief that the mission could be conducted safely by breaking certain rules and taking calculated risks.
When asked about his main concerns, Rush mentioned the inability to return to the surface as the primary worry. He emphasized the importance of avoiding obstacles such as overhangs, fish nets, and entanglement hazards through careful piloting techniques.
