TOKYO (AP) — An initial analysis of flight data recorders recovered from the crash of two Japanese navy helicopters showed no sign of mechanical problems, Japan’s defense minister said Monday, indicating likely human error. One of the eight crew members died and a search is continuing for the seven others. Defense Minister Minoru Kihara said an initial analysis of data from the two flight data recorders on each helicopter showed no abnormality during their flight and that mechanical failure was most likely not the cause of the crash. The two SH-60K reconnaissance helicopters from the Maritime Self-Defense Force lost contact late Saturday during nighttime anti-submarine training near Torishima island, about 600 kilometers (370 miles) south of Tokyo, officials said. A crew member who was recovered early Sunday from the water was later pronounced dead. Searches continued Monday for the seven who were still missing, along with the fuselage of the aircraft. The seabed at the crash site east of Torishima is about 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles) deep and the recovery is considered a challenge. |
Calls to get eStudy finds vapers and smokers have some similar cell changesUS launches more strikes against Houthis in Yemen'Very few grey areas': Greens urged to front on Golriz Ghahraman shoplifting allegations'It's a deliberate strategy to erase us' – Whanganui iwi prepare for national huiGhahraman back in New Zealand amid shoplifting claimsKiwiRail in talks to cancel contracts for new Interislander ferriesWeek in Politics: Government's year starts with a problemBNP Paribas focuses on offshore investor demand for NZXWeek in Politics: Government's year starts with a problem