The black box has been analysed in the accident in which an Air Canada aircraft collided with a fire truck at New York LaGuardia Airport. According to preliminary data, it was determined that the vehicle was warned to “stop” twice.
Black Box Recovered, Analysis Process Began
A critical stage has been reached in the investigation into the aircraft accident that occurred at LaGuardia Airport in New York, USA, and resulted in fatalities.
Authorities announced that the black box belonging to the Air Canada aircraft had been recovered as part of the investigation conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy stated at a press conference held one day after the accident that the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and the flight data recorder (FDR) had been taken to Washington DC for examination.
Fire Truck Was Warned to “Stop” Twice
Initial findings obtained from the black box revealed striking details regarding the course of the accident.
According to information shared by NTSB investigator Doug Brazy, instructions were given twice for the fire truck moving on the runway to stop before the collision.
However, it has not yet been clarified whether the personnel in the vehicle heard these warnings. Authorities also stated that the fire truck involved in the accident did not have a transponder.
Two Pilots Lost Their Lives in the Accident
The CRJ-900 type aircraft belonging to Air Canada Express involved in the accident collided with the fire truck on the runway while landing in New York after departing from Montréal-Trudeau International Airport.
Captain Antoine Forest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther lost their lives in the accident.
More than 40 people, including passengers and crew on board as well as personnel in the fire truck, were taken to hospital.
Treatment of the Injured Continues
Authorities reported that the treatment of some of the injured who were hospitalised after the accident is ongoing.
In a statement made by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, it was reported that firefighter Adrian Baez had been discharged, while Michael Orsillo remains under observation in stable condition.
Multiple Duties in Air Traffic Control
NTSB Chair Homendy confirmed that two air traffic controllers were handling multiple duties simultaneously at the time of the incident.
It was stated that this practice is a standard procedure during night shifts at LaGuardia Airport, and no findings have yet been reached indicating that fatigue contributed to the accident.
Investigation Continues on Multiple Fronts
The investigation into the cause of the accident is being carried out by the NTSB on multiple fronts.
Detailed data to be obtained from the black box is expected to play a critical role in determining the exact cause of the accident.
