Investigators find faulty part in seaplane that crashed near Whidbey Island, warn others
Investigators have released new safety guidelines for seaplanes like the one that crashed near Whidbey Island last month, killing 10 people.
National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy says the part of the plane that failed was an actuator, which helps stabilize the plane in the air. An investigation found that this part didn't break during the crash. Instead, it appears the part wasn't assembled correctly and led the pilot to lose control of the seaplane.
"We have significant concerns about the planes that are operating now and want to make sure that the companies take a look at the actuator assembly immediately to make sure there's not a problem," Homendy said.
Homendy says the company that built the seaplane, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited, has been on Whidbey Island during the investigation.
"They are aware of it and they've already indicated they are issuing the instructions on completing this inspection and that will come out in a service letter to all of the companies that are currently operating these plans," Homendy said.
There are about 65 planes operating in the United States similar to the one involved in September's crash.
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Casey Martin
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Casey Martin is a general assignment reporter who has covered everything from political protests to electric scooters. He is almost always out in the field where the news happens. Casey has reported on extremism, houselessness, politics and Seattle’s nightlife.
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