Rob Bamber, good point (#2483).
Normally in aviation where a recommendation is made, it could be assumed that there is supporting documentation giving the reason for the check so an operator could choose an alternative, but equally safe course of action. Does anyone know if this was the case for the pre-flight TOCW check?
Did the investigations into previous accidents recommend a check or just cite a malfunction?
Did subsequent investigations refer to the first accident and any recommendations made? – I have mislaid the links to the accident reports – previously in this thread.
If there was no such recommendation(s), does anyone know who/where/why a check was selected in preference to a system change?
This is normally a certification activity (FAA), but implemented by the manufacturer. Unless there is regulatory support a mandate (AFM change), it may only be possible for the manufacturer to issue a recommendation.