Kreindler Partner Dan Rose Interviewed for ABC's "Superstar: Aaliyah"
A twin-engine Cessna 402B airplane crashed shortly after take-off from Marsh Harbour International Airport in Abaco, Bahamas killing all on board. The aircraft was registered N8097W to Skystream, Inc. and operated by Blackhawk International Airways. All 9 aboard the airplane were killed in the crash, including the pilot, singer Aaliyah Haughton and 7 members of her entourage, including a record label executive, ahairdresser and her bodyguard.
The Aaliyah crash is an example of a horrific chain of events that starts and ends with the pilot. His lack of experience, use of drugs and alcohol and having allowed the plane to be overloaded all led to this tragedy.
FAA records show that the plane, one of more than 650 Cessna 402Bs manufactured from 1973 to 1978, was owned by SkyStream Inc., of Pembroke Pines, Fla.
Investigations revealed the plane was overloaded by several hundred pounds. The extra weight and the way in which it was distributed contributed to the loss of control and subsequent crash.
Cessna 402B Aircraft
Maintenance records were not immediately available, though witnesses reported hearing the plane’s engines backfire and difficulty starting the engines before take-off. The trim surfaces being at full deflection could also be a consideration.
The pilot’s failure to follow procedures and guidelines combined with falsifying his experience and qualification with the Cessna 402B plane are potential factors. It is believed that the pilot may not have gone through the manufacturer’s checklist before take-off. He also was influenced to take on more luggage and people than the plane could handle.
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Kreindler is one of the largest and most distinguished aviation accident law firms in the world. Since 1950, our attorneys have served as leading counsel in nearly every major commercial aviation disaster litigation. Our staff of attorneys includes pilots, engineers, and a former aviation maintenance specialist. The firm has successfully handled countless private, charter, military, general aviation, and accident cases. Our partners have authored numerous highly acclaimed books, articles, and treatises on aviation litigation.
The Aaliyah crash is an example of a horrific chain of events that starts and ends with the pilot. His lack of experience, use of drugs and alcohol and having allowed the plane to be overloaded all led to this tragedy.
