The vertical stabilizer of the Airbus 330-200 from Air France 447 has been found. In my opinion it reveals the cause of the crash. From the picture it appears to be substantially intact; appearing to have been sheared near or at the forward attachment points. The rudder is also in place (60-70%). If the tail [...]

Recent press releases are pointing to the pitot system bulletin recommending replacement as the probable cause for the crash of Air France 447. The A 330 series aircraft has 3 pitot systems; two are electronic and one is mechanical (tubes). A recent advisory to replace one of the systems still doesn’t explain the total failure [...]

1. “The pilots flew into a level 5 storm.” 2. ”The auto pilot failed; at 35,000 the pilots would have their hands full.” 3. “The pilots may have stalled in turbulence. The high altitude stall would explain the break up.” What is the common theme? Pilot error; it is being put forth subtly and not [...]

Determining the cause of an aircraft lost at sea is a very difficult process; with deep water, currents and the distant locations, sometimes the cause cannot be definitively determined. My Memorial Day post is an example; we never found a single piece of Iron Claw 606, even after searching the area for days. Modern technology [...]

Christopher Monteleon claims he was punished for identifying problems at Colgan Air and is seeking protection under the Federal Whistle Blower Act.