Chieftain Crash at Rand Airport
Well, I see the prelim report is out on the Chieftain crash.
Engine failure on takeoff, and with the aircraft approx 700 lbs overweight poor bugger was unable to go round and hit the deck killing all 11 on board.
Although the Company is suspended, the "Ultimate Responsiblity" will no doubt be laid on the pilot.
At least it has opened a active and public debate about charter standards and the pressure being put on pilots to fly outside the limits.
How often are pilots being pushed into this situation by the operators?
Even the pax cannot be relied upon to know what is good for them.
3 years ago one of my Senecas was stranded at a bush strip for 24 hrs with a MP drop on one engine.
The hunter, 3 pax and baggage really pushed the pilot hard to take him back to base ON ONE ENGINE.He was finally persuaded to wait for the replacement aircraft.