Guam Crash

It seems like an extreme understatement for NTSB investigators to say that the low-altitude warning system “could have made a difference” if it had been operating properly (Aug. 11). In my view, it would be more accurate to say that it probably would have prevented the tragedy.

I was appalled when I learned that the ground-slope transmitter had been out of service for two weeks before the crash. Now I’m utterly in shock over the revelation that two key navigational aids were not operating.

I understand that it is considered to be the pilot’s responsibility to safely land the aircraft. But ask yourself why airports have all of these ground-based navigational tools. Are they truly merely helpful, or are they essential? I would argue that, to safely land at a relatively small airport, a 747 pilot needs all the help he or she can get.

CARY A. PETZEL

Yucca Valley