wind conditions
Who ultimately decides whether it is safe for flights to operate in specific weather conditions at an airport?
While airports have control over operations, the decision about whether it's safe to operate in specific weather conditions is ultimately determined by pilots and airlines, not airport authorities. In the case of the Delta Airlines incident at Toronto Pearson Airport, visibility was good, but wind was the problematic condition. Despite many flights being canceled in the days leading up to the incident, on that day, some operations resumed as they felt they could catch up, which raises questions about the decision-making process during adverse weather.
Watch clip answer (00:50m)
CBS News
26:41 - 27:31
How much did the runway conditions contribute to the Delta jet crash in Toronto?
According to veteran airline pilot Douglas Rice, runway conditions were a small but significant factor in the Delta jet crash in Toronto. The runway had compacted snow and ice, which likely affected landing conditions. However, airport officials had treated the runway in an attempt to maintain safety standards for continued landings. These efforts were intended to create a safe environment despite the winter weather challenges, suggesting that while weather played a role, it was just one of multiple factors that may have contributed to the incident.
Watch clip answer (00:18m)
ABC News
02:00 - 02:18
What challenging conditions did pilots face during landing at the airport near Lake Ontario?
The landing conditions were difficult due to gusty winds ranging from 30 to 40 miles per hour, approaching aircraft at a challenging 40-degree angle. These conditions were particularly hazardous near Lake Ontario, where wind directions can vary unpredictably. The proximity to Lake Ontario created a uniquely challenging environment for pilots, requiring them to navigate not just the high wind speeds but also their irregular angles during approach. This combination of factors made landings especially difficult even under the best of circumstances, demanding exceptional skill from pilots.
Watch clip answer (00:41m)
MSNBC
00:04 - 00:46
What is causing the recent spike in aviation incidents in 2023?
According to aviation expert Anthony Roman, the recent aviation incidents are occurring in difficult conditions that challenge pilots. Specifically, slippery runways with snow and ice, combined with high gusting winds influenced by Lake Ontario, have created hazardous circumstances. Roman notes an unusual pattern where aviation accidents seem to occur in clusters of three, though he acknowledges there's no formal study confirming this observation. Despite these challenging conditions, the combination of professional crew training and robust aircraft design has been crucial in maintaining passenger safety during these incidents.
Watch clip answer (00:45m)MSNBC
04:04 - 04:50
What challenging landing conditions did pilots face at the airport near Lake Ontario?
Pilots faced winds gusting between 30 to 40 miles per hour approaching the aircraft at a challenging 40-degree angle. The airport's proximity to Lake Ontario caused variable wind directions, making landing conditions particularly tough. The wind sock, which provides pilots with visual indication of wind direction and gusts, showed significant movement from right to left with gusty conditions. Despite these difficult circumstances, Delta's professional crews are well-trained to handle such situations, operating within a highly disciplined organization with an excellent safety record. However, the conditions created potential risk for low-level wind shear during the aircraft's landing flare, requiring precise piloting skills.
Watch clip answer (01:09m)
MSNBC
00:25 - 01:35
How did the CRJ900 aircraft design contribute to passenger safety during the emergency landing incident?
The CRJ900 aircraft has an excellent safety record in the United States and is quite capable. One key safety feature is the passenger seats, which are rated for up to 16 Gs of force. This robust seating design significantly helped maintain passenger safety following the rollover during the emergency landing. Additionally, the overall aircraft structure remained relatively intact despite the impact and fire. Emergency rescue crews responded within minutes and quickly extinguished the flames, further ensuring all passengers survived the incident.
Watch clip answer (01:38m)MSNBC
02:07 - 03:45