As of: November 25, 2024 2:16 pm
After a <a href="https://time.news/dhl-plane-crashes-in-lithuania-one-dead/" title="DHL plane crashes in Lithuania, one dead /”>cargo plane crash in Lithuania, investigators are looking for the cause. Previous investigations into incendiary devices in packages at the DHL freight center in Leipzig also play a role.
It is still dark in Vilnius when a deafening noise is suddenly heard near the airport. Shortly afterwards the sky is ablaze with flames. A cargo plane crashes into a residential area shortly before landing in the early morning and narrowly misses a house.
Rescue workers and police officers had a chaotic scene at the scene. Arunas Paulauskas from the police describes the situation: “The plane is completely destroyed and the cargo it was carrying is scattered over a fairly large area. The police have started investigating the crime scene.”
Technical error or human error?
There were four people on board the Swift Air plane, which was traveling from Leipzig to Vilnius on behalf of DHL. According to the Lithuanian police, one of the pilots died in the accident. The other is therefore conscious. Two members of staff were taken to hospital; Investigators hope the survivors will provide information about the cause of the crash.
It is not yet clear what exactly happened. Police chief Paulauskas can only make assumptions at first: “It’s probably a technical error or a human error,” says the officer. ”But we are not aviation experts and we cannot say more at this point. All we know so far is that the aircraft was descending and did not reach the runway.”
Investigations into incendiary devices in packages
The crash raises questions as Lithuania is currently investigating packages containing incendiary devices said to have been sent by cargo planes from the Baltic country to other Western countries. At the beginning of the month there were arrests in Lithuania, among other places. And there were already suspicions of a link between Lithuania and Leipzig: After a fire at a DHL cargo center in Leipzig in July, German security authorities warned of “unconventional incendiary devices” in packages. These would be sent by unknown people.
Could sabotage be behind the crash, perhaps from Russia? Darius Jauniskis, Director of the Lithuanian State Security Agency, says: “Undoubtedly, we cannot rule out terrorism. We have warned that certain things could happen in the future,” says the director. “We see that Russia has become more aggressive. But we can’t point the finger at anyone yet. We don’t have enough information for that.”
Companies such as DHL have been made aware of the risk
It is not easy to protect companies and their employees from such incidents, says Jauniskis: “We have taken several measures to prevent such incidents. We have spoken to DHL and other companies, they have been warned. But it is very difficult to manage because the process is very sophisticated and there are many packages.” The threat has increased in Europe and around the world. Despite the relentless work, it cannot be ruled out that certain cases will be tackled.
DHL also did not comment on the cause of the accident this morning. One written statement said an investigation was underway.
How could recent incidents involving incendiary devices impact aviation security regulations?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Aviation Security Expert
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today. We have a critical situation unfolding following the recent cargo plane crash in Lithuania. Joining us to discuss this is aviation security expert Dr. Elena Kuznetsova. Dr. Kuznetsova, your expertise is invaluable as we try to understand the implications of this incident. To start, can you give us some insight into the immediate aftermath of the crash?
Dr. Elena Kuznetsova: Good afternoon! Yes, it’s indeed a tragic incident. The crash occurred just before landing in Vilnius, narrowly missing residential areas, which raises serious concerns about safety protocols in cargo air transport. The chaos at the scene, as described by police, highlights the potential risks involved when cargo planes operate near populated areas.
Editor: Absolutely. The fact that there were four individuals on board adds another layer of complexity. What do we know about the causes of such incidents? You mentioned safety protocols—how do they apply here?
Dr. Kuznetsova: Generally, cargo flights must adhere to the same safety standards as passenger flights. The primary causes of crashes like this often fall into two categories: technical errors or human errors. With one pilot deceased and the other conscious, investigators may soon glean pivotal details that could shed light on the situation. Moreover, the plane’s descent pattern could indicate failure in navigation, technical systems, or even pilot error.
Editor: That’s a salient point. I also noted that this crash is occurring amid ongoing investigations into incendiary devices shipped via cargo planes, particularly concerning the DHL freight centre in Leipzig. How might this context influence the investigations?
Dr. Kuznetsova: This adds a significant layer to the investigation. The German security authorities’ warnings about unconventional incendiary devices suggest a potential link between the two incidents—previous concerns over safety at freight centers and the recent crash. Investigators will need to consider whether something nefarious plays a role in this crash or if it is purely an unfortunate accident. Any connection between these incendiary device investigations and the crash could unleash broader implications for aviation security.
Editor: Given the accidents and incidents we are seeing in recent months, do you believe there’s a sufficient focus on aviation security, especially related to cargo transport?
Dr. Kuznetsova: The focus is certainly increasing, but it seems to fluctuate based on critical events like these. Cargo planes often fly under the radar in terms of media attention compared to passenger flights. However, these incidents underscore the need for improved screening and monitoring processes. Both manufacturers and regulators need to ensure that cargo carriers maintain stringent safety and security measures.
Editor: As we move forward, what key recommendations would you make to stakeholders in the aviation industry?
Dr. Kuznetsova: First, I would recommend a comprehensive audit of cargo transport regulations and protocols. Ensuring that all cargo is thoroughly screened for potential hazards is essential. Secondly, investing in technology—such as real-time tracking and advanced sensor systems—could help mitigate risks. fostering a culture of transparency within the industry may encourage all parties to report any suspicious activities without fear of repercussions.
Editor: Those are insightful recommendations. As we wait for updates from the ongoing investigation in Lithuania, what can the public do to stay informed and safety-conscious?
Dr. Kuznetsova: It’s crucial for the public to stay updated on credible news sources regarding aviation incidents, and to remain aware of how these issues could affect their safety. Additionally, advocating for greater transparency and accountability in aviation practices is vital. Community engagement can drive policy changes that prioritize safety.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Kuznetsova, for your time and expertise. This situation is evolving, and your insights help illuminate the complexities of aviation safety and security. We’ll be sure to keep our readers updated as the investigation unfolds.
Dr. Kuznetsova: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a swift resolution to this incident and improvements in aviation safety practices overall.
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Laura Richards – Editor-in-Chief
20-year newsroom veteran, former Reuters foreign-desk chief. Oversees editorial strategy and standards at Time .News. Multiple Society of Professional Journalists awards.