A fatal DHL cargo plane crash in Lithuania has been attributed to pilot error, according to a thorough investigation that identified a disabled hydraulic system as the probable cause.
Lithuania Suspects Pilot Error Caused DHL Cargo Plane Crash
Investigation Finds Likely Cause of Fatal Accident
Lithuanian prosecutors have concluded that the fatal DHL cargo plane crash in Vilnius last November was likely caused by ‘pilot error‘ . The investigation, which involved analyzing interviews, inspections of the scene, flight recorder data, and cockpit conversations, has identified a disabled hydraulic system responsible for deploying the flaps as the probable cause.
Pilot error is a significant contributor to aviation accidents.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), human factors are responsible for approximately 50% of all aviation incidents.
Pilot fatigue, lack of training, and inadequate communication are common causes of pilot error.
In addition, pilots may experience cognitive overload due to complex flight procedures or equipment malfunctions.
The consequences of pilot error can be severe, resulting in loss of life, damage to aircraft, and significant economic losses.
Crash Site Damaged Residential House
The aircraft, carrying a crew of four, crashed while approaching Vilnius Airport in the early morning hours on November 25, 2024. One person was killed, and three others injured, but survived. The plane was completely destroyed, causing significant damage to a residential house and nearby warehouse, with a car also catching fire.
On November 10, 2006, a DHL cargo plane crashed at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan, killing seven people.
The investigation found that the probable cause was pilot error due to fatigue.
The crew had been flying for over 14 hours without rest.
The crash highlighted concerns about 'pilot fatigue' and 'crew resource management'.
According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), 'pilot fatigue' is a significant safety risk.
In 2019, ICAO reported that 'pilot fatigue' was responsible for 15% of all aviation accidents worldwide.
Investigation Results
The Prosecutor General’s Office stated that ‘other versions of the accident were refuted by the data obtained during the investigation’ . This suggests that alternative explanations for the crash have been ruled out in favor of pilot error as the most likely cause. The investigation has also identified 13 people who required evacuation from the scene.
Pilot Named as Suspect
Lithuanian prosecutors have named a Spanish national as the suspect in the case, and have asked Spanish authorities to question him. This move indicates that the authorities believe pilot error was the primary cause of the fatal accident.
