The preliminary report released by the Civil Aeronautics of Chile highlights the involuntary movement of the pilot’s seat forward, but it does not provide a clear explanation for the incident. Aviation lawyers representing passengers involved in the accident have expressed concern over the lack of answers and are investigating the history of cockpit seat switch controls on the 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
The report includes photos of the pilot’s and first officer’s seats, which show a significant difference in the resting position of the seat switch covers. While the switch cover on the first officer’s seat sits flush with the seat back, the cover on the pilot’s seat switch does not. This incomplete closure of the switch cover when the pilot’s seat was at rest raises the possibility of the switch being activated inadvertently, leading to the involuntary seat movement.
While the involuntary movement of the seat may be a contributing factor, aviation lawyers emphasize the need for further investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Questions remain about the role of maintenance, components, and crew conduct in the incident, as well as how the seat movement could have such a significant impact on the aircraft’s cruise.
The lawyers are also investigating warnings issued by Boeing about the seat controls in 2017 and again after the March 11 accident. They are awaiting further developments in the Chilean Aviation Authority investigation and are advising clients individually on their rights.
