5 common causes of plane crashes

The main causes of plane crashes are due to negligence, errors, lack of maintenance, and so on. Understanding the root of every crash is a way to improve safety measures and standards. Over the years, in Nigeria, plane crashes have been a cause for concern. The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau continues to inform the public on efforts to improve the aviation industry through safety measures.

Below are the common causes of plane crashes:

1. Pilot’s Errors

One of the common causes of plane crashes is pilots’ errors. It is expected of every pilot to think ahead by checking the weather and be alert to changes. A pilot must understand the mechanical components of an aircraft and the skills that would enable him or her to handle an aircraft. When a pilot loses focus or is confused about what to do, it can lead to a crash. That is why piloting an aircraft requires lengthy training.

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2. Negligence of the Air Traffic Controller 

In the aspect of ensuring the aircraft is safe, air traffic controllers are very crucial. They have to separate and guide aircraft through the airspace. But if a controller fails to do this or feeds the pilot the wrong information, a collision can occur, and if there is no swift adjustment, a crash would happen. So, communicating accurate information and ensuring safety are vital in preventing a crash.

3. Weather Conditions

The weather conditions must be known before an aircraft takes off. Pilots and air traffic controllers must understand the weather conditions. In the course of the flight, the air traffic controllers are expected to give more accurate information to the pilots. Not being cognizant of bad weather conditions enough can, of course, lead to a crash.

4. Lack of proper maintenance

Another common cause of a plane crash is a lack of maintenance, which is very crucial. It is expected of airplane mechanics to uphold inspection requirements or guidelines because there are rules and regulations governing aeroplanes. If an accident occurs, it is also important to know what caused it so that measures can be taken. 

5. Relying on the GPS 

The GPS (Global Positioning System) is a navigation system for aircraft. It can be programmed to follow what the pilot is doing.  But when it is not done professionally or the pilots get carried away by the help of this tool, this can cause an aeroplane to get off the assigned altitude. The GPS also gives pilots the information on how to land safely. But over-reliance on this system can lead to havoc.