An MD-11 freighter operated by Avient Aviation crashed and burned at Shanghai's Pudong International Airport (PVG) this morning, November 28, 2009. At the time of the accident, the aircraft (registration Z-BAV) was departing Shanghai for Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, as Flight Z3-324. A statement on the Avient Aviation Web site confirms that there were seven crew members on board the flight. News reports say that three crew members perished as a result of the accident, and the remaining four are hospitalized with various injuries.According to news media, the aircraft overran Pudong's runway 35R during its takeoff roll. It is unclear at this time whether the aircraft had rotated before crashing, or if the accident resulted from a rejected takeoff.
The accident MD-11F was said to have been recently acquired by Avient.
Condolences to the families and friends of the crew members who lost their lives in this accident. Best wishes to the injured crew members for complete and speedy recovery.
UPDATE Nov. 29, 2009: The Aviation Herald reports: "A Shanghai based pilot witnessing the crash said, that the main gear left the ground just before the end of the runway, the airplane however did not climb more than 10 feet, impacted approach lights and antennas and fell back onto the ground."
The 'black boxes' have been recovered from the wreckage.
I am very sad, having known one of the crew members here in US is devastating to the people who had the honor to know him and the family as well. I still can't believe it.
ReplyDeleteThese men were my friends and very professional in all they did. I am saddened and my heart felt prayers go out to all their families and loved ones. Just another reminder as to how fragile we are and in need of our Savior to be with us at all times. Let us not jump to conclusions either as the reason for this tragedy unfolds. Let us put our trust in God.
ReplyDeleteI flew with 4 of the 7 that were in the crash. Very, very sad situation. Wishing a swift and full recovery to those injured and may the families of the ones who perished find peace in this time of mourning.
ReplyDeleteThis event was a tragedy for all of us who know these men who survived and those who lost their lives. My deepest sympathies and prayers for the families of the three who perished and my sincerest hope for a complete and speedy recovery of the survivors. As Tim B., Kevin R. and others have said, this is a time to remember the families and loved ones of comrades.
ReplyDeleteWe are indeed a close community and linked together in ways we may not even completely recognize. We do well to remember that we are what we do and how we remember each other day to day but most especially when tragedy comes. This counts for much in brotherhood. God bless and strengthen all as each heart needs and to encourage living that honors each man's memory.