An airliner that experienced a frightening technical event while en route to New Zealand has been flown back to Chile for further investigation. The Boeing 787, which had caused injuries to passengers and crew due to a sudden drop mid-flight, was flown from Auckland to Santiago, Chile, where it is registered. Investigators are working diligently to determine the cause of the incident that led to passengers being thrown to the ceiling, with some sustaining injuries.
Reports indicate that at least a dozen individuals were injured during the incident, although responders in New Zealand mentioned that around 50 people required medical attention. The black boxes from the plane have been retrieved by investigators to aid in the ongoing investigation.
The flight data recorder is expected to provide crucial information regarding the airspeed, altitude, flight controls, and other pertinent details that could shed light on what transpired during the flight. This data will help determine if there were any issues with the aircraft's systems or controls that led to the alarming event.
Meanwhile, Boeing has been facing scrutiny following a separate incident involving a door plug on an Alaska Airlines flight in January. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has expressed challenges in obtaining necessary information from Boeing, citing a lack of proper documentation related to the incident.
NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy highlighted the absence of records detailing critical work on the aircraft, which has complicated the investigation process. Boeing has stated its commitment to supporting the investigation and addressing concerns regarding safety protocols and quality control.
These incidents have underscored the importance of thorough documentation and adherence to safety standards in the aviation industry. Boeing's efforts to enhance safety measures and restore its reputation are crucial in ensuring the airworthiness of its aircraft before they are put into service.
