Friday, August 7, 2009

Investigators Cite Human Error in Plane Crash

Human error is one of the factors investigators look into in every accident. In fact, it is the more dominant contributor to accident cause.

Human errors could be attributed to many individuals not only the pilot. Errors committed by the crew and ground personnel such as the controller could also result to fatal accidents.

In an investigation conducted in the March 25 jet fighter crash, investigators revealed that the fatal crash was due to human factors. Investigators determined that Lockheed Martin test pilot David Cooley, who was performing tests under gravitational forces, had experienced an increased psychological stress specifically in the third test. His lack of awareness delayed a recovery maneuver which caused him to almost lose his consciousness.

When Cooley’s attempted recovery, he realized that he had an inadequate altitude and ejected. However, he suffered fatal blunt force trauma due to the aircraft's speed and windblast.

This incident is an example of how fatal human error could be. In this case, the jet fighter was at its A-1 condition. However, Cooley’s string of error caused the flight to an abrupt and tragic end.

Human errors are not only prevalent in plane crashes as it practically exists in all accidents. It only proves that safety lies in one’s own hands. Observance of utmost care and diligence in everything could help us live an accident free life.

For victims of negligent aircraft operation, they can file a personal injury case through the assistance of a plane accident attorney.