The takeoff thrust was incorrectly set on a 747 that crashed on takeoff in October, investigators said last week. The cargo aircraft, operated by MK Airlines of Ghana, was trying to take off at Halifax International Airport in Nova Scotia when its tail struck the runway. The airplane broke apart and exploded, killing all seven crewmembers on board. Newer jets have warning systems to alert the crew to incorrect power settings, but this 747 was not so equipped, investigators said. The investigation is ongoing, and crew fatigue is being scrutinized. The flight crew had been on duty for at least 12 hours. The plane was carrying a heavy load of fish and other cargo, but investigators said it was within limits. Last week, workers who are still cleaning up debris and fuel at the crash site erected a Christmas tree in remembrance of the dead, as families arrived at the site for a memorial service.
747 Thrust Setting Cited In Fiery Crash
Key Takeaways:
- An MK Airlines 747 cargo plane crashed on takeoff at Halifax International Airport, killing all seven crew members, with investigators identifying an incorrectly set takeoff thrust as the primary cause.
- Further investigation is scrutinizing crew fatigue, as the flight crew had been on duty for at least 12 hours, and the older jet was not equipped with warning systems for incorrect power settings.
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