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.
Merlier wins Giro Stage 3 after Pogacar fires up finale and stays in the lead
Uzbekistan knocks out titleholder Saudi Arabia in Under
My body is 70% covered by tattoos
RuPaul's Drag Race Australia judge Rhys Nicholson lists unique Coburg townhouse for $850K
My body is 70% covered by tattoos
Queen Mary of Denmark wears the palace's stunning crown jewels for the first time
Casey DeSmith makes 30 saves as the Canucks take 2
Kim Kardashian's Met Gala moments! A look back at every outfit the star has worn on the red carpet
Jeff Bezos' fiancée Lauren Sanchez quietly SCRAPS self
Chris Hemsworth is 'handpicked' by Vogue editor Anna Wintour to co
Moody Blues keyboard player Mike Pinder dies aged 82