Lomcevak:
The points you raise are very good, particluarly those regarding FADEC and flight in icing. However, what more did you expect from Hoon and the whole Blair crowd? There really is little evidence of backbone from any of them and while the C in C who found the pilots negligent is still alive, I dont believe the government will change its mind.
I suspect, although I dont know, that the guys flying made a mistake. Who hasn't, especially under pressure. But the point is, I cannot put my hand on my heart and state that as a fact. Therefore, it is unjust to find them negligent and in this respect the C in C involved was wholly wrong to over-ride the B of I with his finding.