[Editorial] We applaud the pilots of Asiana Flight 8942

Posted on : 2006-06-12 11:35 KST Modified on : 2006-06-12 11:35 KST

It was a frightening scenario. On June 9, an Asiana Airlines passenger plane flying at 3,000 meters was hit by lightning and hailstones. The nosecone that holds the radar was blown away, and the front windows were broken. A hole appeared on an engine cover. The plane’s electronic guidance system failed, and with the windshield shattered, the pilots said they could not even see in front of them.

The drama ended heroically, as 200 passengers, including 170 elementary school students, lived to tell the story. The day’s heroes were the pilots and flight crew, who instead of panicking, acted skillfully and remained composed, landing the craft successfully. The pilot and copilot did what they could to see the runway through their side windows and landed the craft manually, and the flight crew was able to prevent panic by calmly explaining the emergency guidelines. Senior pilot Lee Chang-ho said instead of thinking about his family, he thought "only about landing correctly." We compliment him on his professionalism in putting passenger safety first. Asiana Airlines gave Captain Lee and his co-pilot its highest award, and members of the flight crew are to be recognized with awards as well. They deserve such encouragement.

Gimpo Airport also responded quickly and correctly. It kept other flights from landing and guided the plane to a safe landing with precise information about altitude and direction. Fire and medical personnel were waiting in case something went wrong. While this was the natural course of action, those on the ground are to be complimented for their air control skills and thoroughly preparedness.

The reason everyone was able to respond in an appropriate manner is because twice every year they receive training that involves time in simulators that prepare pilots for every seasonal situation. One is again reminded of the importance of regular training and education. We would like to see transportation authorities review the training procedures at other airlines. There has been a big increase in summer passengers, and Korea now has new small-scale air carriers beginning to offer domestic flights. An increase in strange weather patterns is exposing airplanes to greater dangers.

Still, one wonders if the nosecone of an airplane, in such a situation, should fall off in one big piece after being struck by a single bolt of lightning. There needs to be a detailed inquiry into whether negligent maintenance was a factor.