"Debris, Bodies Found in Search for Missing AirAsia Flight
8501"
|
|
Search and rescue teams have located the wreckage
from AirAsia's flight 8501 that was traveling from Indonesia to
Singapore. The wreckage and three bodies of deceased passengers were
found in the Java Sea. The airplane is believed to largely be
intact. The emergency door was found floating in the sea, indicating
someone may have tried to exit the aircraft to avoid the incoming
onslaught of waves.
The pilot of flight 8501 requested permission from air
traffic controllers to deviate from his established flight plan, due
to bad weather, but was denied. The plane went missing not long
after. The plane was possibly struck by lightning, destabilizing its
computer systems and components. Experts have stated there is
technology present on planes to assist in navigating lightning
storms, but some pilots do not know how to operate it.
The families and friends of the deceased collapsed
in tears and grief when being told the sad news at the airport. Tony Fernandes, the
CEO of AsiaAir stated, "My heart is filled with sadness for all the
families involved in QZ 8501. On behalf of AirAsia my condolences to
all. Words cannot express how sorry I am."
