Wed, Jun 10, 2009
Colgan Air Crash Is The Catalyst
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood (pictured below) and FAA
Administrator Randy Babbitt announced Tuesday that they have
ordered FAA inspectors to immediately focus inspection on training
programs to ensure that regional airlines are complying with
federal regulations.
"I have no greater obligation than to ensure the safety of
airline travelers in this country," Secretary LaHood said. "One
fatality is one too many."
Secretary LaHood and Administrator Babbitt also will gather
representatives from the major air carriers, their regional
partners, aviation industry groups and labor in Washington, D.C. on
June 15th to participate in a "call to action" to improve airline
safety and pilot training. This review will address pilot training,
cockpit discipline and other issues associated with flight
safety.
"It's clear to us in looking at the
February Colgan Air crash in Buffalo that there are things we
should be doing now," said Administrator Babbitt (pictured right).
"My goal is to make sure that the entire industry - from large
commercial carriers to smaller, regional operators - is meeting our
safety standard."
Department of Transportation and FAA officials said that while
they look forward to receiving the results of the National
Transportation Safety Board's investigation of the Colgan Air
crash, there is no time to lose in acting upon information that is
already available.
The June 15th summit is designed to foster actions and voluntary
commitments in four key areas:
- Air carrier management responsibilities for crew education and
support;
- Professional standards and flight discipline;
- Training standards and performance;
- Mentoring relationships between mainline carriers and their
regional partners.
Secretary LaHood praised Babbitt's experience as a former
commercial airline pilot and former president of the Airline Pilots
Association, noting that he brings a deep understanding to aviation
issues. "I have great faith that Randy's background as a pilot and
his thoughtful approach to aviation matters will help us tackle the
issues raised in the Colgan Air crash," Secretary LaHood said.
"There is nothing more important than safety and safety cannot
wait."
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