Probe could be complete in month

A PRELIMINARY investigation into the devastating air crash at Cork Airport could be complete within a month, investigators said yesterday.

Jurgen Whyte of the Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) said there would also be Spanish, British and American involvement in trying to piece together the key reasons why the Manx American-built Metroliner Avia 400C aircraft crashed early yesterday morning. A separate Garda investigation is also likely.

Speaking at a media briefing led by Minister for Transport Pat Carey yesterday, Mr Whyte said the initial investigation could comprise just a few pages but would seek to establish the basic facts of the accident.

Key to the investigation is recovering the flight data recorder and the cockpit voice recorder from the wreckage. Both are designed to withstand 1,000°C heat.

Yesterday four investigators left America to travel to Ireland — one from the National Transport Safety Board, one from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and two others likely to be linked to the company which built the aircraft.

Three investigators from Britain will be involved as the plane departed from Belfast and the co-pilot was English. The Spanish authorities are also likely to be involved as the aircraft was registered with Spanish flight operator Flightline.

The AAIU response to the air disaster was quick, with a ‘go’ team led by pilot and investigator in charge, Leon Murray, flown by helicopter from Baldonnel in Dublin to Cork Airport to inspect the scene.

A second investigation team arrived later in the afternoon, while the Emergency Response Teams dealing with the immediate aftermath of the crash remained at the scene.

Mr Whyte said British authorities had been contacted with a request to provide details on the passenger manifest and fuel upload.

“We will be looking at everything, including the serviceability of the aircraft, any form of mechanical issue, we will be reviewing the Air Traffic Control tapes, the radar tapes, the weather, the operation of the aircraft.”

He said it was too early to say if a diversion to Farranfore in Kerry or elsewhere had been mooted. “Had the aircraft made a mayday call we would have heard it at this stage, however, that has to be determined.”

Mt Ehyte said the Metroliner was not a modern aircraft but once properly certified and maintained there should be no issue.

Another aspect of the investigation is whether the loud bang which emanated from the plane may have occurred before it hit the ground.

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