7-Second USAir Crash Warning Cited
The crew of a USAir plane that crashed on takeoff in a snowstorm at La Guardia Airport three months ago had no sign of trouble until seven seconds before the crash, says a transcript of the cockpit voice recorder released Monday.
A warning beep seven seconds before the March 22 crash was followed by the sound of someone cursing and the pilot saying “God.” Another curse followed and someone said “come on” just one second before impact.
The pilot, a flight attendant and 25 passengers died in the crash.
The National Transportation Safety Board released the transcript shortly before starting hearings on the crash. The tape also appears to show that the crew checked the wings several times before taking off, as required.
Ice on the plane’s wings has been cited as a factor in the crash. USAir spokeswoman Agnes Huff confirmed Monday morning that the airline has asked for permission to use an alternate type of de-icing fluid, called Type II, this winter at La Guardia.
Type II has not been allowed because the substance is so thick that there is concern it could contaminate runways.
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