Boeing Aircraft

An aviation expert and qualified Boeing pilot based in the United Kingdom, Mr Jim Morris, says aircraft approved for flying were originally manufactured to last many years.

Morris, who spoke at an informative forum recently organised by the Nigerian Leadership Initiative (NLI) on behalf of the families of victims of Dana Airline crash in Abuja, explained that proper use and maintenance of an aircraft will ensure its longevit.

According to him, airlines were designed to be used for many years. He cited an example with the aircraft he last flew for the British Royal Air Force, the Boeing E-3D AWACS, which was manufactured in 1990 and will be used in operations worldwide by the RAF for at least 40 years.

He also referred to the preliminary report on the Dana crash, released by the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) as sketchy, stressing that the details made available were not enough to calm fraying nerves.

He explained, “The report stated that the Boeing 737 was about 22 years old. The manufacturers created it in a way that it will serve for a long while. If it was constantly and properly maintained, had no defective original or replaced components and operated correctly, then the aircraft should be perfectly safe.

“Double loss of engine is a rare occurrence. When the pilots of the Dana Airliner declared that they had lost both engines, a crash short of the runway was unavoidable, as it would be extremely unlikely that they would have had enough height to glide to Lagos.

“There are conflicting reports as to the state the aircraft was in before the flight . The authorities concerned must release a comprehensive report of the crash to end speculations. We can take action and draw inferences from these reports to avoid future occurrences.”