ValuJet Crash
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Re “An Air Disaster’s Legacy,” editorial, Dec. 14: The oxygen canisters that probably caused the fire on ValuJet Flight 592 were not “spent,” as stated, but live canisters, which had been removed from another aircraft. They were shipped on a passenger aircraft in violation of FAA regulations. If safety caps had been installed, as required by law for shipment even by truck or rail, the fire probably would not have occurred.
The fire-extinguishing systems mandated by the FAA since the crash would not have been effective against a fire fueled by its own oxygen supply. The newly required cargo compartment smoke or fire detectors might have given Flight 592’s crew a few more minutes to attempt to land the aircraft.
Installing fire-extinguishing systems (other than water sprinklers) in passenger cabins will be tricky. How do you smother the fire without smothering the passengers?
RALPH MERRILL
Retired Aeronautical Engineer
Long Beach
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