One question that arises out of the flight-attendant-at-the-helm scenario is why that flight attendant, who apparently managed to disengage the autopilot, was unable to use the radio to call for help. In fact, one aviation expert interviewed by The Associated Press suggested the lack of communication was deliberate. “Someone knew how to work the airplane,” said Paul Czysz. “Obviously he didn’t want to contact the tower.” However, the online version of a Bulgarian newspaper, Information Agency Focus, quoting an unnamed technician for Olympic Airlines, reported that there were radio problems with the plane. The newspaper said the Olympic Airlines technician claimed that a Helios official was told that the captain of the crash airplane informed controllers of the communications problem but was told by the tower to continue the flight. Meanwhile, the airline issued a statement insisting the aircraft was properly maintained and the crew properly trained and qualified for the flight. It said the “partial, inaccurate or sensationalist reporting of events surrounding the accident serves no purpose except to increase the confusion and distress of the families of those on board.”
…Radio Problems?…
Key Takeaways:
- An expert questioned why a flight attendant, who disengaged the autopilot, couldn't use the radio, suggesting a deliberate lack of communication from the cockpit.
- Conflicting reports emerged regarding the radio: an expert implied deliberate silence, while a Bulgarian newspaper cited an Olympic Airlines technician claiming the captain had reported pre-existing radio problems but was told to continue the flight.
- The airline maintained that the aircraft was properly maintained and the crew was trained and qualified, criticizing media reports as "partial, inaccurate or sensationalist."
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