Smoke rises from a burning plane after it crashed into a house in Clarence Center, N.Y., Thursday Feb. 12, 2009. (AP Photo/David Duprey)
by Frank James and updated
Today's big national story was supposed to be the House vote on the economic stimulus bill.
But the late-night crash of a Continental Airlines flight into a neighborhood near Buffalo, NY, killing 49 people, 48 on the plane and one on the ground, is obviously the story that will likely get the most attention today, at least at this point.
While it's too early to know the cause of the crash which originated at Newark International Airport, an unofficial recording of the radio traffic between the airspace controllers and pilots approaching the Buffalo airport reveals that some pilots reported their planes' surfaces were icing up because of weather. And at least one pilot reported visibility issues.
Although federal investigators always look at all factors, the icing reports give them an early important lead. Another key lead, it appears there was no mayday call from the pilot who was flying for Colgan Air, which operates commuter flights for Continental.
President Obama issued a statement from the White House this morning:
""Michelle and I are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic accident outside of Buffalo last night. Our hearts go out to the families and friends who lost loved ones.
" I want to thank the brave first responders who arrived immediately to try and save lives and who are continuing to ensure the safety of everyone in the area. We pray for all those who have been touched by this terrible tragedy to find peace and comfort in the hard days ahead.''
Comments
My thoughts go out to the families. It reminds us life can be way too short. We should spend less time bickering and more time enjoying loved ones and all that is offered to us.
Posted by: bill r. | February 13, 2009 7:47 AM
Interesting that Obama has thus far not denied his administration's involvement in this crash, a crash that killed one of his harshest critics, a crash that will now make it much easier for Obama to release more Muslim terrorists. I see a lot of evidence that would lead one to suspect the adminstration's involvement - especailly given Obama's Chicago background and the way he routinely deals with opponents. Are we seeing a revisit of the Clinton years and all the suspiciaous deaths that occurred?
Posted by: Rick LaBonte | February 14, 2009 5:00 PM
I live nearby. All of Buffalo area is effected, as our community is like one big family. Just about everyone known passengers: A family friend died.
Posted by: Daniel | February 14, 2009 8:29 PM
I live nearby. All of Buffalo area is effected, as our community is like one big family. Just about everyone known passengers: A family friend died.
Posted by: Daniel | February 14, 2009 8:29 PM
The black boxes survive plane crashes. I have no skills in this area but I wonder why planes can't be made of what black boxes are made of?
Thank you for taking my comment.
Posted by: Jeanie Columbo | February 16, 2009 10:13 AM