How much you can you do in 48 seconds? – Commenting on BALPA’s post.

Have you ever thought about how much you can you do in 48 seconds? It’s not even enough time to make a cup of tea, no time to listen to your favourite song, but, although hard to believe, 48 seconds is how long the pilots of British Airways flight called Speedbird 38 had to avert a major catastrophe at Heathrow Airport 10 years ago. 2 days ago, Steve Landells, BALPA flight safety specialist wrote what we believe is a very interesting post on the BALPA’s blog.

This post clearly identifies some of the key issues we must have in mind when approaching such vital issues as aircraft safety or accident investigation. Maybe obvious for the safety professionals like ourselves, but would like to point out the following:

* Speculation is never a good friend, never.
* Pilots must report freely, without criminalising mistakes. This is part of basic safety culture.
* Investigations must be kept absolutely confidential, professional investigators know what they are doing: respect, please.