The crash of American Eagle flight 4184 and the ATR icing story
On October 31, 1994, American Eagle flight 4184 crashed due to ice accumulation, killing all 68 on board. The incident raised safety concerns about the ATR 72 and regulatory oversight.
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On October 31, 1994, American Eagle flight 4184, an ATR 72, crashed near Roselawn, Indiana, killing all 68 on board. The accident was attributed to a phenomenon known as "aileron hinge moment reversal," caused by ice accumulation on the aircraft, which led to a sudden loss of control. This incident raised significant concerns regarding the ATR 72's safety, particularly its performance in icing conditions, which had been a known hazard in aviation. Investigations questioned whether ATR was aware of the aircraft's vulnerabilities and whether regulatory authorities had overlooked critical warnings. The flight crew, consisting of experienced pilots, had not been provided with crucial weather information indicating potential icing, which could have influenced their decision-making. The crash highlighted systemic issues in aircraft certification and the need for improved communication of weather hazards to flight crews. The aftermath of the crash sparked a broader debate about aviation safety standards and the responsibilities of manufacturers and regulatory bodies in ensuring the safety of regional aircraft.
- American Eagle flight 4184 crashed on October 31, 1994, due to ice accumulation leading to loss of control.
- All 68 passengers and crew members on board were killed in the accident.
- The incident raised questions about the ATR 72's safety and the adequacy of regulatory oversight.
- Investigations revealed that the flight crew lacked critical weather information regarding icing conditions.
- The crash prompted discussions on improving aviation safety standards and communication protocols.
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