flight safety detectives episode 152 - a320 elevator damage impacts flight

John Goglia and Todd Curtis discuss a recent event where an A320 lost part of its left elevator during takeoff in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The focus is on the differences in aviation safety systems around the globe, the challenges of tracking service bulletins on aircraft, and pilot decision making.

In this Jan. 29 flight, the flight control system was damaged and the aircraft was unable to make left turns. The aircraft continued to its destination and landed safely.

John and Todd discuss the crew’s decision to continue the flight, the ability of the civil aviation authorities to investigate the incident, and the role that the manufacturer may play in understanding what led to the elevator separation.
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An investigation into the incident may or may not happen. Further, results of any information gathered may not be released to the public or aviation community.

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