Imagine getting on a flight, preparing for a pretty smooth ride only to experience the plane plunging toward the ocean!! That’s exactly what happened to passengers aboard a United Airlines flight back in December.
Federal investigators gave an update on the incident this Thursday and said that miscommunication between pilots is what caused a United Airlines jet to dive within 748 feet (228 meters) of the ocean’s surface shortly after takeoff from Hawaii.
The National Transportation Safety Board shared its final report with the public and said the crew failed to manage the plane’s vertical path, airspeed, and nose direction following a mix-up between the captain and co-pilot.
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More On What Happened
According to NBC News citing the report, the Boeing 777 climbed above 2,200 feet after taking off from Kahului Airport on the island of Maui. Suddenly, it dropped more than 1,400 feet toward the Pacific Ocean, the news site notes. Both pilots told investigators they heard the plane’s ground proximity warning system call out “Pull up, pull up.” Thankfully, the pilots were able to recover and climb right up to the air then continued on to San Francisco without further incident, according to the report.
So What Happened To The Pilots?
It was said by a United spokesman that both pilots received additional training and are still flying for the airline. Spokesman, Joshua Freed said in a statement, “There’s nothing more important than the safety of our crew and customers, which is why we’re drawing on the lessons learned from this flight to inform the training of all United pilots. Our pilots voluntarily reported this event and United fully cooperated with the independent investigation.”
What Is The Likelihood Of A Plane Accident?
When it comes to air travel, safety is always a top concern for passengers. Fortunately, the likelihood of a plane accident is extremely low. In fact, statistically speaking, flying remains one of the safest modes of transportation. The aviation industry has made significant advancements in technology, training, and safety protocols over the years, resulting in a remarkable safety record.
Various factors contribute to the low probability of plane accidents. These include rigorous maintenance checks and inspections carried out on aircraft, stringent regulations imposed by aviation authorities worldwide, continuous pilot training programs, advanced navigation systems, and improved communication networks.
It’s important to note that accidents are rare occurrences and are often caused by multiple factors coming together rather than a single issue. Airlines and regulatory bodies continuously analyze incidents to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes to further enhance safety measures.
Passengers can have peace of mind knowing that airlines prioritize their safety above all else. From routine maintenance procedures to comprehensive pre-flight checks conducted by highly trained professionals, every aspect of air travel is designed with safety in mind. So next time you board an aircraft or consider booking a flight, rest assured that you are embarking on one of the safest journeys possible.
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