The FAA found that the use of MU-2B airplanes has changed. Originally marketed as a corporate aircraft in the 1960s, it is used more today for cargo hauling and private operations. This switch means the aircraft is now “in the hands of pilots and maintenance providers who, in general, have less experience in high-performance airplanes than when it was used primarily as corporate transportation,” the FAA said. Those pilots aren’t getting the kind of training and proficiency checks that corporate pilots would, and they may operate a variety of aircraft, not just the MU-2B. Further, this shift in usage exposes the airplanes to more frequent night flight operations. Mitsubishi spokesman Scott Sobel told The Associated Press the company stands behind the aircraft’s safety record when used properly. “MU-2 aircraft operators need to be trained according to the manufacturer’s flight manual procedures, which have been in place for decades to maintain safety standards,” Sobel said.
FAA Calls Crew Experience Into Question
Key Takeaways:
- The FAA noted a significant shift in MU-2B airplane usage from its original corporate role to primarily cargo hauling and private operations.
- This change has resulted in pilots and maintenance providers generally having less experience and comprehensive training in high-performance aircraft compared to the previous corporate operators.
- The altered operational environment also subjects MU-2B aircraft to more frequent night flights, potentially increasing operational risks.
- Mitsubishi maintains the aircraft is safe when operated properly and emphasizes that operators must adhere to the manufacturer's established flight manual procedures and training standards.
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