Originally Posted by kapton
Does anyone have any predictions on when, or whether we are ever likely to see a final report on the Meroliner crash at Cork Airport?
The regulation that covers accident investigation says 'The safety investigation authority shall make public the final report in the shortest possible time and if possible within 12 months of the date of the accident. If the final report cannot be made public within 12 months, the safety investigation authority shall release an interim statement at least at each anniversary of the accident, detailing the progress of the investigation and any safety issues raised'.
Things seem to be progressing according to the rules so it is reasonable to expect that a final report will be published when the investigation is complete. When that will be is down to the people doing the investigation.
The reason that it is taking so long may well be because, as you say '...I believe this case brings up so many issues'. Although you may be right that lawyers will get to the truth in the end, it is unfortunate that in the courts the truth is so often twisted to suit the needs of the lawyers' case at the time - this is not a criticism, that's what they are paid for. What we will hopefully get from the AAIU, and all of the indications so far are that this is where they are headed, is an analysis of the accident based on fact with the intention of preventing future aviation accidents and serious incidents rather than apportioning blame or liability.
What will be interesting when the report is published is how EASA and the rule framework that it has developed will be handled. It is arguable that comprehensive and effective oversight of virtual airlines and their operations has become far more difficult as a result of the Europe-wide regulations 'sponsored' by EASA and the principle of mutual recognition that is embedded within the rules. And, of course, EASA is an appointed observer to the investigation.