aviation safety

Todd Curtis and John Goglia discuss the February 9, 2024 crash of a Challenger 604 jet on I75 in Florida. The plane landed on the road, but then crashed into a wall, killing the pilot and copilot. John and Todd discuss why a better outcome was possible.

The jet, which had three crew members and two passengers, was nearing the end of a flight from Columbus, Ohio, when the flight crew declared an emergency to air traffic control. They lost their engines and could not make it to the airport.

Little official information was available at the time of the recording. It was not known whether the aircraft was equipped with a cockpit voice recorder or flight data recorder. The engines appear to be intact, which will help with the investigation.

John and Todd compare this accident to a 1997 Southern Airways DC9 crash in New Hope, Georgia. In that accident the crew was able to land on a road, and the aircraft caught fire after running into obstructions near the road.

In both accidents there were survivors among the cabin crew and passengers. Todd and John encourage pilots to assess their options for making an emergency landing so they are prepared to take action if an emergency occurs.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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Most general aviation pilots hesitate to declare an inflight emergency fearing negative consequences. Greg Feith, John Goglia and Todd Curtis use a Beechcraft Bonanza plane crash to illustrate how declaring an emergency can be the safest move.

The fatal Beechcraft Bonanza accident in the spotlight of this episode is featured in the book, "Single-Pilot IFR Pro Tips" written by 2019 National CFI of the Year Gary "GPS" Reeves. Known as The Guy in the Pink Shirt, Reeves uses examples from several incidents to illustrate good general aviation pilot habits. 

Reeves uses the Beechcaft Bonanza event to highlight the advantages of not waiting to declare an emergency. The Flight Safety Detectives find that this crash is also a classic example of how oversights and bad habits by the pilot in command can lead to an avoidable accident.

They offer life-saving insights into this aviation disaster. The NTSB found that the cause was an improperly positioned fuel selector lever. Greg shares his own experience dealing with an improperly positioned lever. John recounts accidents involving fuel selector levers, including the crash that killed John Denver. 

Amazingly, John’s experience is that many general aviation pilots have problems with the fuel sector due to not using them at all and never getting a feel for how they operate.

“It’s not like jumping in the car to go to the grocery store,” John says. “Flying is not that simple. You need to do a thorough preflght, every time.”

If the accident pilot had followed Gary Reeves advice to declare an emergency when problems first develop, the pilot would have been able to land safely at an airport. The FAA would have looked at the scenario as prudent decision making and would likely not have taken any action against the pilot.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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In this episode of "Uplink: The Big Story," we dive into FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker's illuminating testimony before lawmakers. This session provides a unique lens on the intricacies of American aviation management and future directives under his leadership.

Key Discussion Points:

Whitaker's Capitol Hill Briefing: An overview of FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker's recent testimony, highlighting his insights on the state of American aviation and the challenges ahead.

Pilot Retirement Age Debate: Exploring the critical discussion around adjusting the mandatory retirement age for airline pilots from 65 to 67, a change with significant implications for the industry.

DEI Initiatives in Aviation: Analyzing the impact and importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts within the aviation sector, amidst ongoing debates on their efficacy and implementation.

Immigration and Airport Utilization: Delving into the controversial use of airports for housing immigrants as part of the broader border crisis, examining the logistical, ethical, and political dimensions of this issue.

Honorable Mentions:

Helicopter Noise Over New Jersey: Addressing community concerns and regulatory responses to helicopter noise pollution in New Jersey areas.

Expanding GI Bill for Veteran Training: Discussing the potential benefits of extending GI Bill provisions to support veteran training in aviation careers, fostering growth and opportunity.

Vaccine Mandates and Workforce Shortages: Evaluating how vaccine mandates have impacted workforce dynamics within the aviation industry, particularly in the context of ongoing shortages.

FAA Technological Modernization: Highlighting the urgent need for updates and improvements in FAA's technological infrastructure to meet current and future aviation demands.

Conclusion:

Wrapping up, we emphasize the importance of Whitaker's testimony as a roadmap for navigating the evolving landscape of American aviation. These discussions not only reflect the current state but also forecast the trajectory of regulatory, operational, and ethical considerations shaping the industry's future.

Key Moments:

0:00 - 0:31 - Introduction to the episode, highlighting the focus on Michael Whitaker's testimony before lawmakers regarding the state of American aviation.

0:31 - 1:02 - Overview of the challenges facing the FAA, including pilot mental health, Boeing issues, workforce dilemmas, and the safety culture.

1:02 - 1:28 - Dive into the nuanced topics like the pilot retirement age, work from home rules for air traffic controllers, and DEI initiatives.

1:28 - 1:57 - Discussion on the controversial use of airports for housing immigrants, honorable mentions on various aviation-related issues.

1:57 - 2:25 - The critical need for modernizing FAA's technological infrastructure and a summary of the episode's forthcoming discussions.

2:25 - 2:39 - Transition to the main content of the episode.

3:21 - 3:56 - Background on Michael Whitaker and his roles and responsibilities at the FAA.

3:56 - 8:37 - Detailed discussion on the pilot retirement age debate.

8:37 - 10:39 - Examination of work-from-home policies for air traffic controllers and the related challenges.

10:39 - 12:56 - Analysis of DEI initiatives in aviation and their impact on the industry.

12:56 - 15:50 - The FAA's role in the border crisis and housing of immigrants at airports.

15:50 - 21:28 - The necessity of wide oversight to run the FAA and the various challenges discussed.

21:28 - 22:18 - Closing remarks on the complexities of Whitaker's role and listener engagement invitation. The conversation continues. Join the Uplink—LinkUp  and Uplink—LinkUp: DC Metro

The pilot of a Beech Bonanza F33A made an off-field landing when the engine lost power shortly after takeoff. John Goglia, Greg Feith and Todd Curtis dig into the information gathered by the NTSB and find this crash was caused by poor decisions made by the pilot.

Greg, Todd, and John analyze the information from the Public Docket of the crash investigation. They find that the pilot's lack of understanding about the aircraft and its systems contributed a series of decisions that led to the plane crash. 

The pilot took off with the fuel pump on to deal with an overheating problem in two of the six cylinders of the engine. He did this despite a placard advising that the aux pump should not be on during takeoff. 

In the Continental IO-520 engine in this plane, as in many piston engines, airflow cools the cylinders. Common and overlooked, baffles are critical for proper engine cooling. John details his experiences seeing damaged, cracked and improperly installed baffles on engines. 

Greg contrasts the good decision the pilot made top not attempt a return the airport with the bad decisions he regularly encounters when pilots make the hazardous and often fatal decision to make an impossible turn back to the runway.

Related documents are available at the Flight Safety Detectives website.
 

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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In this  episode of Uplink, we were honored to welcome Dr. James E. Sulton, III, a distinguished figure from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. The episode dove deep into the critical and ever-evolving world of aviation safety, where Dr. Sulton has made significant contributions through his professional work and his nonprofit, AviationEd.

Dr. Sulton shared his personal journey into the aviation field, emphasizing his passion for aviation safety and education. He discussed the impact of the retirement of the NTSB's Most Wanted List and the shift towards new safety advocacy strategies that aim to address and improve safety measures within the industry.

The conversation also covered the persistent challenges hindering aviation safety and the innovative opportunities emerging to tackle these issues. Dr. Sulton highlighted the importance of embracing new technologies and the vital role young professionals play in advancing the field of aviation safety.

A significant portion of the discussion explored the differences between business and commercial aviation safety needs and strategies. Dr. Sulton elaborated on the essential role of Safety Management Systems (SMS) across various aviation sectors, particularly emphasizing their importance for private aviation operators.

Addressing the gap between the public's perception and the reality of aviation safety, Dr. Sulton provided valuable insights into common misconceptions and the actual state of safety in aviation today.

The episode concluded with Dr. Sulton offering advice to those interested in pursuing careers in aviation, sharing how he integrates his passion for aviation with family life and community involvement. This episode provided a comprehensive overview of current trends and future directions in aviation safety, reflecting Dr. Sulton's deep commitment to making the skies safer for everyone.

Key Moments

00:00 - 00:27 - Introduction to the Episode: The episode focuses on aviation safety, introducing the broad spectrum of aviation and the unique challenges each sector faces.

00:27 - 00:53 - Introduction of Dr. James E. Sulton III: Dr. Sulton's impressive background and role in aviation safety and education are highlighted.

04:10 - 04:45 - Dr. Sulton's Journey: Dr. Sulton shares his personal journey into aviation, sparked by childhood experiences and familial influences.

06:19 - 06:46 - Passion for Aviation Safety: The conversation transitions to Dr. Sulton's passion for aviation safety, emphasizing the importance of safety practices and education.

09:13 - 09:43 - Shifting Focus in Aviation Safety: Dr. Sulton discusses new methods for highlighting and addressing safety improvements after the NTSB's Most Wanted List retirement.

14:24 - 15:11 - Persistent Challenges in Aviation Safety: Dr. Sulton talks about communication and resource allocation as persistent challenges in aviation safety.

15:47 - 16:10 - Opportunities for Innovation: The discussion shifts to innovation in aviation safety, focusing on leadership roles and the importance of a shared safety mindset.

18:44 - 19:09 - Nuances Between Commercial and Business Aviation Safety: Dr. Sulton explains the overlap and differences in safety needs and strategies between these sectors.

20:38 - 21:08 - Advice for Aspiring Aviation Professionals: Dr. Sulton offers advice to listeners interested in pursuing careers in aviation, emphasizing the importance of understanding and improving safety processes.

21:40 - 22:00 - Join the community. The conversation continues. Join the Uplink—LinkUp  and Uplink—LinkUp: DC Metro

In this episode of Uplink: The Big Story, we delve into the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, a critical legislation that stands at a pivotal juncture in American aviation history. We unpack the legislation's significance, its current status in the Senate, and the wide-ranging implications for safety, efficiency, and innovation in the national airspace.

Key Discussion Points

FAA Reauthorization Act Overview: We start with a brief overview of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, highlighting its role as the legislative backbone for the Federal Aviation Administration's operations and funding.

Safety and Boeing 737 Max 9 Incident: The recent Boeing 737 Max 9 incident has reignited concerns over airline safety. We discuss how this event influences Senate scrutiny of the FAA bill and the potential for enhanced safety measures.

Economic and Community Impact: The episode examines how the FAA bill affects local communities reliant on airports for economic vitality and the broader implications for employment and economic growth within the aviation sector.

Workforce and Innovation: We explore provisions in the bill to promote aviation workforce growth and encourage innovation, emphasizing the importance of securing America's leadership in global aviation.

Legislative Challenges and Strategies: The discussion shifts to the complexities of navigating the legislative process, including the alignment of FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker, Senate leaders, and industry stakeholders on the bill's provisions.

Deep Dives

Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF): Michael provides insights into the evolution of SAF in the industry, discussing current challenges, opportunities, and the potential impact on environmentally responsible flying.

Safety Management Systems (SMS) Implementation: We discuss the anticipated FAA rulemaking for SMS in business aviation, including the impact on Part 135 operators, air tours, and manufacturers and the challenges of scaling SMS effectively.

Legislative Details

Bill Provisions: An in-depth look at the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, S.1939, including funding allocations for the Airport Improvement Program, agency operations, facilities, and equipment, and the significant increase in funding for AIP.

Reauthorization Process: An explanation of the FAA reauthorization process, its importance for the continuous operation and advancement of the FAA, and the legislative efforts involved in renewing and revising relevant laws.

In wrapping up, we discuss the critical need for timely legislative action to ensure the continued safety, efficiency, and innovation of America's aviation infrastructure. The episode emphasizes the collective responsibility of lawmakers, industry leaders, and the aviation community to navigate the legislative turbulence and chart a course toward a secure and prosperous aviation future.

Key Moments:

0:00 - 2:00 - Introduction to the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, highlighting its critical role and the urgency for Senate clearance due to the impending expiration.

2:00 - 4:00 - Discussion on the wide-reaching impacts of the bill's delay, affecting aviation safety, efficiency, and technological advancements.

4:00 - 6:00 - Insights into the strategic steps required for a safer, more efficient, and innovative aviation future, emphasizing collaboration and technological advancements.

6:00 - 8:00 - Exploration of the bill's implications for airport infrastructure, workforce challenges, and the integration of emerging technologies.

8:00 - 10:00 - Discussion on environmental sustainability practices within the bill, including sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and the importance of regulatory shifts.

10:00 - 12:00 - The impact of Safety Management Systems (SMS) in business aviation, highlighting upcoming mandates and their significance.

12:00 - 14:00 - Summary of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023's provisions, including financial allocations and program significance.

14:00 - 16:00 - Emphasis on engaging youth and diversifying the aviation workforce through implementing recommendations from recent reports.

16:00 - 18:00 - Insight into SAF developments, regulatory incentives, and advancements in production facilities.

18:00 - 20:00 - Overview of the comprehensive FAA Reauthorization Bill and its financial impact on various aviation programs.

20:00 - 22:00 - Closing remarks on the importance of community engagement and listener participation in aviation discussions.

22:00 - 25:57 - Final thoughts on the episode's discussions, emphasizing the FAA Reauthorization Act's importance for the future of aviation and inviting listeners to join the community dialogue. The conversation continues. Join the Uplink—LinkUp  and Uplink—LinkUp: DC Metro

The events that led up to the crash of a MD82 in Detroit are used to illustrate the critical role of operational discipline. Greg, Todd and John give insight into the issues that led to Northwest Airlines Flight 255 crashing and disintegrating. This is just one example of bad decisions taking an airplane out of the sky.

This aviation disaster killed two people on the ground and nearly everyone on board. The sole survivor was a four-year-old girl who was seriously injured. Hear the experts dissect the chain of events that led to the crash, including multiple distractions and delays and the crew neglecting to complete the taxi checklist.

The report from the accident does not discuss crew resource management (CRM) practices of the accident flight crew. John discusses how CRM practices were adopted in the 1980s to reduce aviation safety risks by having flight crews become more consistent in managing aircraft operations.

Greg and John showcase other noteworthy accident investigations that are examples of behaviors that had to be changed in the cockpit and how not following basic CRM practices leads to accidents.

Checklist discipline is important in all types of aviation operations, including general aviation. Complex flight management systems that are now common even in single engine general aviation aircraft.

Hear also what passengers can do to improve their safety in flight.

Related documents are available at the Flight Safety Detectives website.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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The NTSB says distracted pilots led to a near-disaster on the ground at JFK Airport last year. An American Airlines plane taxied across the wrong runway. if not for a shouted expletive from a controller...it could have collided with a departing Delta plane.  Aviation Analyst Jeff Guzzettia is On the Record with Steve Scott.

Jenni Rivera was a huge celebrity at the time of her death. Was the plane crash that killed her an accident or do the conspiracy theories point to the real cause? 

In a continuation of the examination of this aviation incident that started in Episode 203, Greg Feith joins John Goglia and Todd Curtis to discuss why the conspiracy theories related to the crash are unlikely to be true. They use the evidence uncovered during the official investigation combined with their knowledge of the accident aircraft to get to the facts.

John, Greg, and Todd compare the Jenni Rivera accident to other accidents that have widely believed conspiracy theories. TWA flight 800 and Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 are two examples. They cover other plane crashes involving celebrities, including the crash that killed Ricky Nelson. 

Maintenance and operational issues were a factor in the Jenni Rivera crash. The same is true for other high-profile aviation disasters including the crash that killed singer Aaliyah. These events have common contributing factors including the involvement of less than reputable charter organizations and issues around bogus aircraft parts. 

Some charter flight operators ignore or violate aviation safety regulations and practices. Proposed safety improvements like better data recorders have been opposed by aircraft operators and manufacturers.

Related documents are available at the Flight Safety Detectives website.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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Please note that the views and opinions expressed by the speaker are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, positions, or policies of any other organization or entity with which they may be affiliated. The content provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to represent the official stance of any other group or institution.

In this insightful episode of Uplink, we tackle the sensitive and crucial topic of mental health in the aviation industry, focusing on the hidden struggles of pilots. Our conversation with Dr. William "Billy" Hoffman, a neurologist and aeromedical researcher, sheds light on the complexities of healthcare avoidance among pilots and the broader implications for aviation safety.

We delve into the multifaceted reasons behind pilots' reluctance to disclose mental health issues, exploring how this fear affects their well-being and professional lives. Dr. Hoffman illuminates the unique challenges pilots face in managing their mental health, distinct from other professions. He discusses the delicate balance between ensuring aviation safety and supporting pilots' mental health needs, especially given their concerns about losing certification.

The discussion further uncovers the demographic factors influencing pilots' healthcare avoidance and the implications of these behaviors on a personal level, rippling through the aviation industry. We examine pilots' unique position regarding health disclosures and how this influences their decisions, especially in light of Dr. Hoffman's research revealing the vast scope of this issue, with over half of U.S. pilots reporting a history of healthcare avoidance.

Addressing the pressing need for change, we explore alternative approaches and solutions to effectively and compassionately address pilots' mental health concerns. The conversation also highlights the significant issue of pilots avoiding healthcare for fear of losing their flying status and the widespread nature of this problem in the aviation industry.

We consider the dynamic nature of mental health and whether the current system adequately supports pilots dealing with temporary or situational mental health issues. The episode also delves into the negative repercussions pilots face when grounded due to mental health issues, including the evolving narrative about pilots' health behavior and its implications following the Alaska Airlines incident.

Our discussion with Dr. Hoffman is not just an analysis of current events; it's a deep dive into the challenges of public trust, industry confidence, and the future of aviation safety. We explore the critical steps needed to shift the aviation culture towards a more open and supportive approach to mental health, ensuring pilots' well-being and passengers' safety. Join us on Uplink as we navigate these crucial issues, charting a course toward a more understanding and supportive future in the aviation industry.

Key Moments:

0:00 - 4:47 - Introduction and Overview: Starting with the focus on mental health in aviation, the introduction of Dr. Billy Hoffman, and his advocacy for innovative mental health solutions for pilots.

4:47 - 9:29 - Impact of Mental Health Disclosure and Unique Needs: Discussion about the effects of mental health issue disclosure on pilots' well-being, their unique mental health needs, and the balance between aviation safety and mental health support.

9:29 - 14:29 - Addressing Mental Health in Aviation: Emphasizing the importance of addressing mild mental health symptoms in pilots, the barriers they face in seeking mental health care, and alternative approaches for pilot mental health.

14:29 - 20:27 - Comprehensive Mental Health Challenges: Exploring the necessity of honest health disclosure, transitioning to a performance-based approach, and addressing mental health among new mothers in aviation.

20:27 - 26:02 - Demographics, Misinformation, and Global Perspectives: Focusing on demographic differences in healthcare avoidance, the impacts of informal healthcare seeking, and international perspectives on aviation mental health.

26:02 - 31:35 - Systemic Changes and Cultural Shifts: Discussing training programs and healthcare avoidance, the need for systemic change in the aviation industry, and the role of unions and organizations in advocating for pilots' mental health.

31:35 - 39:44 - In-depth Analysis and Closing Thoughts: Delving into the historical context of pilot health standards, the dual role of military flight surgeons, and Dr. Hoffman's final thoughts on mental health in aviation.

47:12 - 49:05 - The conversation continues. Join the Uplink—LinkUp  and Uplink—LinkUp: DC Metro

In this episode of 'Uplink: The Big Story, we delve into the ongoing saga of Boeing's 737 MAX 9 and its implications for the aviation industry. The recent FAA inspections of Boeing 737 MAX 9 airplanes, following a serious incident where a cabin panel detached mid-flight, have brought Boeing's manufacturing processes and safety protocols sharply into focus. With 40 of the 171 grounded planes requiring reinspection, the FAA's thorough review process is critical to potentially ungrounding these aircraft. This development has caused significant disruptions for major users like Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, leading to the cancellation of hundreds of flights and raising serious questions about Boeing's future in aviation.

Adding to the complexity, a separate incident involving US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was stranded due to a malfunction in his Boeing 737, has only intensified the scrutiny on Boeing. The potential impact of a U.S. government shutdown on the National Transportation Safety Board's (NTSB) investigation into Boeing's issues further complicates the scenario. This episode isn't just about technical failures; it's a deep dive into the issues of public trust, industry confidence, and the future of one of the largest players in the aviation sector. We explore Boeing's multifaceted challenges, including the need for a cultural shift within the company, emphasizing safety and quality over all else.

Our discussion also extends to the broader implications of this situation for our listeners, particularly young professionals and aspiring aviation industry members. We explore how Boeing's challenges present unique learning opportunities in crisis management and corporate responsibility, highlighting the growing need for innovation centered around safety and reliability. This episode is not just an analysis of current events; it's a call to the next generation of aviation professionals to lead the charge in shaping a safer, more reliable future for the industry. Join us on 'Uplink: The Big Story' as we navigate these turbulent skies and chart Boeing's challenging path toward redemption.

Key Moments

0:00 - 3:07 - Introduction & Recap

3:07 - 5:42 - The Latest updates on the Boeing situation

5:42 - 7:20 - How does Boeing rebuild trust?

7:20 - 9:06 - Safety & Supply Chains - Is Boeing compromising both for sales?

9:06 - 14:07 - The race with Airbus. Boeing should focus on quality over quantity. 

14:07 - 16:26 - The FAA and Boeing: What role does the Fed's oversight, or lack, play in this?  

16:26 - 19:01 - Lessons and opportunities for young professionals

19:01 - 21:10 - The conversation continues. Join the Uplink—LinkUp  and Uplink—LinkUp: DC Metro

Todd and John analyze the plane crash that killed singer Jenni Rivera. The report from the Mexican accident investigation found that the Learjet 25 aircraft lost control during climb for reasons that could not be determined. 

Key items are missing from the report that concluded that the crash was a loss of control event:

• No analysis results of the flight controls
• No flight data recorder recovered
• No cockpit voice recorder found
• No formal analysis of the pilots 

The In the wake of Rivera's death, there have been ongoing rumors that this event was not an accident, a belief that has been supported by a number of television productions. 

Todd and John examine the facts, data, and analyses contained in the official report. John adds insight into the lax aviation maintenance and compliance common in Mexico.

The wreckage shows no evidence of an explosion or other deliberate action. The level of oversight that the US and Mexican governments typically have over aircraft that are registered in the US and operate in Mexico adds complexity to understanding exactly what happened. 

The Detectives plan a future episode that will focus on the conspiracy theories involving Jenni Rivera's death. They will look at how much, or how little, the facts of the investigation support those theories.

Related documents can be found at the Flight Safety Detectives website.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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Latest on the Alaska Airlines Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 737 MAX 9 aircraft plug door separation and rapid decompression. Todd, Greg, and John discuss recent developments, including the recovery of the plug door.

They talk about the value of having the plug door for inspection. They share the sequence of events that led to the door separation based on factual evidence.

The spotlight is now turning to Boeing. Will the company’s future actions keep the CEO’s promise that Boeing will be transparent about what happened?

Hear their insider take on the challenges Boeing may face when it comes to earning confidence that company will correct problems with the 737 MAX. The approach that Boeing has taken in the past may not be adequate to address the quality issues of the 737 MAX.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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Runway images show that the Coast Guard Dash 8 involved in the collision with Japan Airlines Flight 516 was in the wrong place. The crew was to hold on the taxiway, but were actually on the runway. The plane standing still on the center line would have been virtually invisible to the pilots of the JAL Airbus A350. 

The scenario is similar to a runway collision involving US Air Flight 1493 that John investigated as an NTSB Board member. That investigation made midfield takeoffs illegal in the United States.

John, Greg and Todd walk through the known details and the human factors that led to the plane crash. 

• Misunderstanding between the tower controller and the crew of the Dash 8
• Lightning conditions at the runway
• Dash 8 pilot not monitoring the Air Traffic Control radio frequency

Human errors and communication issues contributed to the crash. The episode also covers the role of aviation technology, including the heads-up display in the A350, surface radar/ASDI, and traffic collision avoidance systems (TCAS).

This is a follow up to Episode 198, Expert Insights into the Japan Airlines A350 Aviation Disaster, where noted airport rescue and firefighting expert Jack Kreckie discussed the firefighting response. 

Related documents are available at the Flight Safety Detectives website.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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United Airlines has reported loose bolts on five of their 737 MAX 9 aircraft plug doors. This is the latest in the unfolding look at what happened in the incident involving Alaska Airlines Flight 1282.

John and Greg use insights from their decades of experience inside NTSB and other aviation safety incident investigations to explain the latest developments. They cover the information that has been released so far and what is to come. 

John goes through the steps that aircraft mechanics would have used to address earlier reports of pressurization warnings on this specific aircraft. Mechanics likely would have checked the pressurization system and focused on the hardware. “It wasn’t quite there yet” to escalate to pressurizing the plane to check for leaks.

John and Greg return to earlier discussions of the status of quality inspections at Boeing. The internal safety review that has been reported isn’t the right step to fix safety and quality issues. This latest black eye makes it clear that is time to address manufacturing process issues and “get some good planes out the door.” 

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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A drone and helicopter collide in midair as they cover a desert road race. The crash caused minor damage to the helicopter and major damage to the drone. Todd Curtis and John Goglia dissect the video and NTSB report of the incident involving a Aerospatiale AS350BA helicopter and a DJI Mavic 2 Zoom drone.

John and Todd focus on key safety issues that the NTSB did not raise as they examined the 2020 collision in Johnson Valley, California. Operating helicopters and drones in the same low altitude airspace created significant safety risks that neither pilot appeared to take into account.

A video from the drone documents the midair collision. John and Todd share expert analysis of the safety issues revealed in the video. They find that both pilots made hazardous moves that were outside regulations.

Related documents are available at the Flight Safety Detectives website.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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A pilot doing his first banner tow with a Piper PA25 crashed and died. Todd and John examine this devastating banner tow plane crash. They urge pilots to educate themselves about all types of flight operations.

NTSB reports are a good resource, but more data is often available online. Images and videos taken by other pilots and the public and websites like FlightAware can help the effort to understand what is needed for aviation safety in all types of flight operations.

The 2019 plane crash in Fort Lauderdale, Florida at the center of the episode happened to a new tow pilot who had less than an hour's worth of flight time towing a banner. Inexperience and a lack of training led to this aviation disaster.

Banner towing has long been an attractive job for pilots looking to build flight hours. Unfortunately, accidents are common in towing operations. Todd and John offer options for new pilots to increase their understanding of the risks that come with banner towing and other types of commercial flight operation.

Related documents are available at the Flight Safety Detectives website.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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Kodey Bogart, Retired Army Aviator, Educator, Entrepreneur, & Author: turning adversity into her superpower.  

As many of us are familiar, adversity is a universal and inevitable part of life that most of us face through challenges like illness, loss, financial hardship, and the growing pains of life. Adversity is non-discriminatory, affecting all individuals regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status. No person is immune from it. While adversity introduces difficulties, it also plays a crucial role in personal growth and grit. Within society, we have witnessed how adversity drives innovation, strengthens community bonds, and enhances empathy.

In the face of adversity, the history of women in aviation is a testament to resilience. Since the early days of flight, women like Élisabeth Thible, who flew in a hot air balloon in 1784, and Aida de Acosta, who in 1903 became the first woman to pilot a motorized aircraft, have been relentlessly reaching for the skies. The early 20th century saw women like Emma Lilian Todd designing successful airplanes and Georgia "Tiny" Broadwick performing parachute jumps, pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible for women at the time. Even with these successes, these pioneering women were often not considered serious aviators or contributors to the field.

Despite their early involvement, women were also often restricted to working privately or in support roles in the aviation industry before 1970. Nonetheless, they were breaking records and competing in air races against men within the first two decades of powered flight. During World War II, while most female pilots were restricted from military flight, many served in auxiliary services and support roles. As time progressed, women continued to make progress, often in the background contributing greatly to our industry, with limited resources and a lack of community in their workplace.  

The modern landscape for women in aviation is certainly improving with several organizations and initiatives dedicated to supporting women in the workforce, however, the data still reflects a significant gender gap. We learned from the FAA Women in Aviation Advisory Board report how women make up less than 20% of the aviation workforce, with even lower representation in pilot and maintenance roles. As of 2022, women account for just 9.57% of all pilots. When we exclude student licenses, the figure drops to 6.34% for non-student female pilots. The five-year trend leading up to 2022 does show growth in the number of female pilots, but the percentage increase is modest, sometimes being referred to a flatline growth.  

Reflecting on the importance of gender equality in our industry and thinking about the conversations I have had with women in the industry, I've come to believe that a significant way to better support women is by actively listening to their stories, specifically on adversity. Hearing how they've transformed challenges, failures, and difficult moments into avenues for growth not only fosters equality but also empowers the next generation, who sometimes feel the pressure to be perfect. These storied provides practical guidance and perspective on resilience and perseverance, illustrating how to rise above obstacles and advance with determination. On a personal note, when I talk about adversity during keynote presentations, I find it to be healing as I share these experiences with others.  

With this, we invited Kodey Bogart, Retired Army Aviator, Educator, Entrepreneur, and Author, to be our podcast guest this week and asked her to share her story.

Kodey Bogart's career journey exemplifies the enduring spirit of women in aviation, demonstrating how resilience can turn adversity into triumph. Raised in Michigan with a love for the outdoors, art, and nature, Kodey faced an unfortunate challenge in her childhood that set her on a path of service rather than setbacks. She enlisted in the military after high school, where she discovered her passion for flight. As an Army Warrant Officer and Aviator, she was recognized with two Air Medals and a Sikorsky Rescue Award for her service during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Post-military, Kodey's aviation career continued as she flew over 2,500 hours of accident-free flight time, serving in air ambulance and aviation law enforcement roles. Her commitment to lifelong learning earned her a Master's in Aviation Safety from the Florida Institute of Technology and a Bachelor's from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, specializing in Helicopter Safety. Currently pursuing her Doctorate in Aviation with an emphasis on Safety and teaching part-time as an Adjunct Professor at FIT, Kodey balances her academic pursuits with motherhood, community engagement and authoring a series of books to educate and inspire the youth.

In 2018, I was invited to be a speaker at a conference in the Midwest. Before I got on the stage to present my keynote, the session before me was talking about a new concept that I remember briefly hearing about as a student at Embry-Riddle, Advance Air Mobility (AAM). The speaker mentioned how AAM is the future of aviation, and that it will revolutionize air travel as we know it.

AAM is known as the development, integration, and utilization of new airborne transportation systems, typically involving electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, drones, and other innovative aerial vehicles. These systems are designed to operate in urban, suburban, and rural environments. Since that conference in 2018, so many developments have transpired in this sector.

Key Features of the AAM sectors include;

• eVTOLs: These are aircraft that can take off and land vertically like a helicopter but transition to forward flight like a plane, predominantly powered by electric propulsion.
• Urban Air Mobility (UAM): A subset of AAM focusing on urban environments. UAM seeks to alleviate ground traffic congestion by taking advantage of the airspace above cities.
• Decentralized Infrastructure: Instead of large central airports, AAM emphasizes smaller vertiports or landing pads scattered throughout urban and suburban areas.
• Autonomous Operations: While initial operations may have human pilots, the goal for many AAM solutions is to eventually operate autonomously, which will require advanced autonomous flight systems and robust air traffic management solutions.

The AAM sector on a global scale was valued at $8.2 billion in 2022. It is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20% by 2032 with a valuation to reach about $68.1 billion. Furthermore, investments in AAM have reached $4.8 billion in 2021, with new innovative companies launching each year in pursuit of the next successful eVTOL to hit the market. Specifically, there are over 200 companies globally in the race to develop eVTOL aircraft. The primary driver in the AAM sector is the Urban Air Mobility market which is projected to rise from 3.8 billion to 38.5 billion by 2030.

In terms of women in this sector, McKinsey & Company shared on its blog this year how women are advancing in Future Air Mobility (FAM). Here are a few key points the blog shared.

• Sustainable aviation saw the biggest improvement in gender diversity, with the number of women and nonbinary people increasing from 13 percent to 18 percent.
• Other segments, including manned advanced air mobility/eVTOL vehicles and small drones, showed smaller gains.
• Companies that develop supersonic and hypersonic technology regressed, with the number of women and nonbinary people falling from 23 percent to 20 percent, although the small sample size means that the departure of a few senior leaders could sway the numbers in a meaningful way.
• Among regions, North America has the most diverse leadership teams in both gender (20 percent female or nonbinary) and ethnic diversity—defined as the non-majority group in a company’s home country (18 percent).
• Technical roles have seen the biggest increase in diversity for both genders (going from 5 percent to 14 percent female or nonbinary) and people from ethnic minorities (going from 12 percent to 16 percent).
• Despite this progress, women and nonbinary people remain significantly underrepresented in technical roles at FAM companies, as they are in many other industries.

Our special guest who will launch us into season five of the AVIATE with Shaesta podcast is Elan Head, a familiar voice in AAM. Elan is an award-winning journalist specializing in aviation and technology. Head currently serves as the Senior Editor at The Air Current and continues to be a respected journalist in the industry covering several developments and breaking news in AAM. Elan is a Commercial Helicopter Pilot and an FAA Gold Seal flight instructor with helicopter and instrument helicopter ratings. Elan joins us to share her unexpected start in aviation and how she turned her passion for flight and journalism into a career that she truly enjoys.

The recent event where an off-duty airline pilot who was flying in an airplane jump seat allegedly tried to shut off the engines leads to a discussion of crimes in the air. John and Todd talk about several examples of criminal aviation disasters.

In the October 2023 event, a Horizon Air Embraer E175 airliner carrying dozens of passengers from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco was endangered. An off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot reported he had taken “magic mushrooms” 48 hours before the incident where he tried to disable the engines in flight.

Todd and John compare this event to other events where pilots deliberately crashed aircraft. They contrast the U.S. policy of publishing official reports of criminal aviation events with the policies of other countries. They also discuss how practices and policies related to jump seat use have changed over time.

Contributing to these disasters may be medical privacy laws. The pilot certification process now relies on self-reporting of medical issues. Since many conditions would disqualify an individual from flying, there is incentive to not report all issues. John argues that changes are needed that would both protect the flying public and the privacy and careers of pilots who may have medical issues.

Related Documents are available at the Flight Safety Detectives website.

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