NTSB TO ASSIST IN AIRLINER CRASH INVESTIGATION IN AFRICA

The National Transportation Safety Board will lead a team of U.S.-based investigators to assist the government of Benin in its investigation into the crash of a Boeing 727 on Christmas day that apparently resulted in the deaths of more than 100 passengers and crew.

NTSB Chairman Ellen Engleman Conners has designated Dennis Jones, a senior investigator for the NTSB, as the United States' Accredited Representative to the investigation. He will lead a team that includes investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing Commercial Aircraft, and Pratt & Whitney Engines.

Under Annex 13 of the articles of the International Civil Aviation Organization, the United States - as country of manufacture for the aircraft and the engines - has been invited by the Benin government to assist its investigation into the crash, which reportedly occurred when the airliner was taking off for a flight from Cotonou to Lebanon.

The U.S. team is expected to arrive in the west African nation of Benin today.

NTSB Press Contact: Terry Williams, (202) 314-6100
williat@ntsb.gov