Demonstration Flight In Indonesia Ends In Disaster

A quick and thorough investigation will be vital after new Russian passenger aircraft the Sukhoi Superjet-100 crashed into an Indonesian volcano during a demonstration flight, according to aviation law specialists at Irwin Mitchell.

The plane, which was designed in cooperation with Boeing, reportedly crashed into a cliff on the dormant Mount Salak around 30 miles west of Jakarta during a test flight from Halim Perdanakusuma Airport aimed at boosting interest among potential buyers and journalists.

It is believed that the plane requested to descend by 4,000ft around 20 minutes into the flight, which is when the aircraft then disappeared off radar. Helicopters have since spotted wreckage and there are significant concerns that all 47 airline employees on board were killed.

The National Commission on Safety Transportation in Indonesia has confirmed it is now reviewing tapes between air traffic control and the pilots, with a specific focus on the request to descend.

Jim Morris, a former RAF pilot and specialist aviation lawyer at Irwin Mitchell’s London office, said "our thoughts are with the families of the passengers and crew and it is vital that all aspects of this air tragedy are quickly ascertained."

He continued: “While initial investigations will rightly focus on the request to descend, it is important that there is a full and thorough examination of the chain of events that lead to the incident. This is likely to consider issues including the weather conditions at the time of the crash, pilot actions, the status of the avionics and whether any technical or mechanical failure may have played a part.

“It is vital that answers can be provided in relation to this crash, particularly considering the concerns it has raised over this new aircraft – a model which has already been ordered for use by a number of airlines.

“Ultimately though, the key is that the questions of the families of those on board the plane can be answered, with a view to ensuring that as many lessons as possible can be learned in relation to flight safety.”

Irwin Mitchell Aviation Law has developed extensive experience in handling aviation claims for passengers and crew involved in aviation accidents around the world, including international airliner disasters, business jet, light aircraft, helicopter and military accidents. For more information visit our Air Accident Claims Page.