The deadly microlight aircraft crash in Tema, which resulted in two deaths, has been linked by the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) to improper maintenance procedures and engine failure.
The aircraft had numerous engine overheating issues prior to the tragedy, but the flaws were not adequately fixed before further flights, according to the Bureau’s final inquiry report.
Investigators found that white smoke was frequently seen emanating from the aircraft’s engine on previous brief flights and landings in Ho.
The investigation also revealed that the pilot tried to cool the overheating engine by dousing it with water, which the Bureau deemed hazardous and improper.
Additionally, AIB Ghana discovered that Air Traffic Control (ATC) was not aware of the aircraft’s operations or the ongoing mechanical issues because no flight permissions had been granted for its movements.
Paul Fordjour, the Bureau’s Head of Investigation, presented the final report on Tuesday, May 26, stating that the crash was most likely caused by engine failure based on the information acquired during the investigation.
“Our findings indicate that engine failure was the probable cause of the accident, with pilot actions also contributing to the incident,” he stated.
Additionally, Captain Fordjour emphasised human-factor issues that were discovered throughout the investigation, including as continuous cell phone use while in flight.
“There was a distraction due to persistent communication on the cell phone,” he continued.
According to the Bureau, the results show that in order to avoid such events in the future, maintenance standards, operational procedures, and aviation safety rules must be strictly adhered to.
Source: newsthemegh.com