What a bunch of hypocrats. The brazilian authorities had no problems jumping to conclusions when they arrested two American pilots without a proper investigation.
Hey, not so fast…. Just which Brazilian authorities are you referring to? Had the issue been left entirely to the local aviation authorities, the whole affair would have followed its natural course like all other aircraft accident investigations. Regrettably, the morning after the accident, the local press had published lurid stories of “gringo” pilots performing barrel rolls and loops – and a federal judge out in Hicksville read one such piece. He blew a gasket, called the Polícia Federal and shortly thereafter the local politicians pounced on that. The minister of defence didn’t ease matters by incorrectly confirming what the press had published. In other words, the entire affair fled from the control of the local aviation authorities and landed in the laps of politicians eager to score points with their constituency.
I know TAM had nothing to do with it, but it is pathetic to see what a change in attitude Brazil has had in general when it is one of their own.
That might be the impression you’re getting out wherever you are – but TAM is experiencing a sound financial trouncing over here, with ticket sales down by 30% or more. And the local politicians aren’t being too finicky in hammering TAM to the stake and lighting a bonfire – if it serves their purpose.
I hope they learn something about propper investigation and implementing changes to prevent further accidents rather than just throwing out blame.
Sorry to disappoint you but up until the Gol/ExcelAire midair collision, Brazil’s CENIPA was far and away the best aircraft accident investigation board in Latin America, earning recognition from its peers in the US, UK and elsewhere for the manner in which it conducted its investigations – especially those involving foreign flag carriers. Needless to say, these two major mishaps (Gol/ExcelAire & TAM) have seriously tarnished the CENIPA’s reputation – and through no fault of its own.
Unfortunatey, judging by the way they are handling the whole ATC fiasco, I don't think they will.
Brazil’s ATC problems are far more complex than what meets the eye and it would be best to open up a an entirely new thread to discuss it.
Regards
Tail Chase