The deadly crash of a B-17 bomber in Connecticut has shaken the ever-smaller community of pilots who fly World War II-era planes that they say offer both unique challenges and thrills. Seven people were killed when the plane crashed and burned Wednesday about eight minutes after taking off from Bradley International Airport. The pilot, Ernest "Mac" McCauley, 75 who was regarded as one of the most experienced B-17 pilots in the country, reported a problem with an engine, turned back to the airport and touched down before losing control on a runway and crashing into a de-icing facility.