There was a deadly plane crash in Trenton, Maine on July 25, 2024. The plane, a single-engine Cirrus SR22, crashed near a runway at Hancock-Bar Harbor Airport. According to reports, there were foggy weather conditions in the area at the time of the crash, but it is unknown if this contributed to the crash. The plane was en route from Farmingdale, New York. Two people were killed in the crash. FAA records indicate the plane is owned by Miller High Life Aviation LLC in Charleston, South Carolina. The victims have been identified as Michael Leibowitz and Christina Chung. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by this deadly crash.
Landing a small plane during foggy weather conditions presents significant risks primarily due to the severe reduction in visibility. Fog can drastically limit the pilot’s ability to see the runway, surrounding terrain, and other aircraft, making it challenging to maintain the correct approach path. This reduced visibility increases the reliance on instruments and navigational aids, which can become critical under such conditions. The precision and reliability of these systems are paramount, as any discrepancies can pose serious hazards during the landing phase.
Another major issue related to foggy landings is the increased risk of runway incursions and obstacles. Limited visibility can prevent pilots from spotting other aircraft, ground vehicles, or wildlife on the runway. Even with clear instructions from air traffic control, the dense fog can obscure these hazards until it is too late to take evasive action. Smaller airports, in particular, may lack advanced ground radar systems and sufficient lighting to aid in navigating the runway and taxiways safely, which further complicates landing in foggy conditions.
The accuracy and reliability of airport infrastructure also play a crucial role in safe landings during fog. Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), approach lighting systems, and runway visual range (RVR) measurements are critical in guiding aircraft to a safe touchdown. Any malfunctions or inaccuracies in these systems can significantly impact the safety of the landing. Ensuring that all navigational aids and lighting systems are fully operational and regularly maintained is essential to mitigate the risks associated with landing in foggy weather.
Finally, the risk of executing a go-around maneuver is heightened in foggy conditions. A go-around, or aborted landing, may become necessary if the pilot is unable to align the aircraft properly with the runway or if unexpected obstacles are detected. In foggy weather, the decision to go around must be made quickly and executed precisely, as reduced visibility can make it difficult to maintain situational awareness and avoid obstacles during the climb-out. Properly functioning navigational aids and well-coordinated air traffic control are crucial in assisting pilots to safely execute a go-around if needed.
There have been a number of recent plane accidents in 2024. There was a deadly plane crash in Morehouse Parish, Louisiana on July 11, 2024. A Cessna 402 crashed near Easton, Maryland on July 16, 2024. A Beechcraft BE-60 crashed while attempting an emergency landing at Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport on July 19, 2024. A Beechcraft Bonanza A36 crashed on a runway at Long Island MacArthur Airport in New York on July 22, 2024.
Spagnoletti Law Firm has attorneys licensed in Texas, Florida, New Mexico and New York. We have handled numerous cases involving the failure of necessary equipment on a plane or helicopter in both federal and state court across the country. When it comes to aviation, safety must come first. Our attorneys have extensive experience in plane and helicopter crash litigation and the skills needed to aggressively represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or those who have been seriously injured in a plane or helicopter crash. The experienced aviation attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of a crash. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.