Pilots’ confusion over which engine was failing caused 2021 cargo plane crash off Hawaii, NTSB says

By alexandreCommunication

Pilots’ confusion over which engine was failing caused 2021 cargo plane crash off Hawaii, NTSB says

On July 2, 2021, a cargo plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Hawaii, killing both pilots on board. After months of investigation, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released their findings on what caused the crash: confusion over which engine was failing.

The Details of the Crash

The plane, a Boeing 737-200 operated by Rhoades Aviation, took off from Honolulu bound for Maui with two pilots and one passenger on board. Shortly after takeoff, the pilots reported a problem with one of the plane’s engines and requested to return to Honolulu. However, as they were attempting to make an emergency landing, the plane crashed into the ocean.

The cargo plane was carrying boxes of auto parts and lithium-ion batteries, which created a dangerous situation for rescuers attempting to approach the wreckage. The NTSB launched an investigation to determine what caused the crash.

The NTSB Findings

The NTSB determined that the cause of the crash was confusion over which engine was failing. According to their report, the left engine had failed, but the pilots mistakenly believed it was the right engine that was having problems. This confusion led them to shut down the wrong engine, causing the plane to lose power and crash into the ocean.

The NTSB also found that the pilots did not follow proper procedures and communication protocols, which contributed to the confusion. They were also under stress due to problems with the plane’s fuel system and a lack of immediate support from the company’s maintenance personnel.

The Importance of Proper Training and Communication

This crash serves as a reminder of the importance of proper training and communication in aviation. Pilots must be trained to follow procedures and communicate clearly in high-stress situations. Companies must also provide adequate support and resources to their pilots to ensure safe operations.

The NTSB has made several recommendations based on their findings, including improved training for pilots, better communication protocols, and more support and resources for maintenance personnel. It is up to the aviation industry to take these recommendations seriously and work towards making air travel as safe as possible.

The Future of Cargo Plane Safety

Cargo plane safety has been a growing concern in recent years, with several high-profile crashes raising questions about the industry’s safety protocols. The NTSB’s findings in this crash highlight the need for continued improvements in cargo plane safety.

Industry leaders must work together to address safety concerns and implement best practices for training, communication, and support. By working together towards a common goal of safety, we can prevent tragedies like the 2021 cargo plane crash off the coast of Hawaii.

The 2021 cargo plane crash off the coast of Hawaii was a tragic reminder of the importance of proper training and communication in aviation. The NTSB’s findings underscore the need for continued improvements in cargo plane safety. It is up to the aviation industry to take these recommendations seriously and work towards making air travel as safe as possible for everyone involved.