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Germanwings crash: report that co-pilot Lubitz had suffered 'personal life crisis' - live updates Germanwings crash: report that co-pilot Lubitz had suffered 'personal life crisis' - live updates
(about 1 hour later)
10.01pm AEST11:01
CNN has an informative video about the safety history of the A320 Airbus.
In its history there have been:
8.38pm AEST09:388.38pm AEST09:38
The Independent is reporting that pilots from around the world are urging people not to jump to conclusions about Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz.The Independent is reporting that pilots from around the world are urging people not to jump to conclusions about Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz.
Pilots are defending #Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz http://t.co/19DePGLPLZ pic.twitter.com/rrJY8zjX3BPilots are defending #Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz http://t.co/19DePGLPLZ pic.twitter.com/rrJY8zjX3B
The Independent reports that Vereinigung Cockpit, known in English as the German Airline Pilots Association, said it was too quick to draw conclusions before the recovery of the second black box.The Independent reports that Vereinigung Cockpit, known in English as the German Airline Pilots Association, said it was too quick to draw conclusions before the recovery of the second black box.
The flight data recorder contains detailed information about the plane’s operations and altitude to accompany audio from the cockpit.The flight data recorder contains detailed information about the plane’s operations and altitude to accompany audio from the cockpit.
Ilja Schulz, President of the association, said:Ilja Schulz, President of the association, said:
We should not rush to conclusions based upon limited data.We should not rush to conclusions based upon limited data.
The reasons that led to this tragic accident will only be determined after all data sources have been thoroughly examined.The reasons that led to this tragic accident will only be determined after all data sources have been thoroughly examined.
8.02pm AEST09:028.02pm AEST09:02
AFP have posted these pictures of investigators working on the crash site of the Germanwings Airbus A320.AFP have posted these pictures of investigators working on the crash site of the Germanwings Airbus A320.
Investigators working on crash site of the #Germanwings Airbus A320. Photo Anne-Christine Poujoulat #AFP pic.twitter.com/BfN4VUpfKsInvestigators working on crash site of the #Germanwings Airbus A320. Photo Anne-Christine Poujoulat #AFP pic.twitter.com/BfN4VUpfKs
7.36pm AEST08:367.36pm AEST08:36
Here is an extract from the latest Guardian story from my colleagues Luke Harding and Kim Willsher, which focuses on fresh revelations about the history of co-pilot Andreas Lubitz:Here is an extract from the latest Guardian story from my colleagues Luke Harding and Kim Willsher, which focuses on fresh revelations about the history of co-pilot Andreas Lubitz:
The investigation into Tuesday’s crash of the Germanwings plane that killed 150 people is focusing on the background of the co-pilot, who appears to have deliberately downed the plane in a rocky ravine in the French Alps.The investigation into Tuesday’s crash of the Germanwings plane that killed 150 people is focusing on the background of the co-pilot, who appears to have deliberately downed the plane in a rocky ravine in the French Alps.
Airlines around the world have scrambled to introduce rules to ensure two crew members are always in the cockpit, after investigators said first officer Andreas Lubitz locked the flight commander out of the cockpit before deliberately crashing the plane.Airlines around the world have scrambled to introduce rules to ensure two crew members are always in the cockpit, after investigators said first officer Andreas Lubitz locked the flight commander out of the cockpit before deliberately crashing the plane.
Live Germanwings crash: report that co-pilot Lubitz had suffered ‘personal life crisis’ - rolling updatesLive Germanwings crash: report that co-pilot Lubitz had suffered ‘personal life crisis’ - rolling updates
French prosecutor says co-pilot crashed plane deliberately as relatives of victims arrive in village near the crash site in French AlpsFrench prosecutor says co-pilot crashed plane deliberately as relatives of victims arrive in village near the crash site in French Alps
Investigators are looking into the background of Lubitz, who was 27, for clues as to why he may have wanted to take his own life - and to kill 149 other people as he did so.Investigators are looking into the background of Lubitz, who was 27, for clues as to why he may have wanted to take his own life - and to kill 149 other people as he did so.
On Thursday, Lufthansa’s chief executive, Carsten Spohr, revealed that Lubitz had interrupted his training in 2009, but refused to say why. He would only say that Lubitz was eventually cleared to return to work, after passing fitness and psychological tests.On Thursday, Lufthansa’s chief executive, Carsten Spohr, revealed that Lubitz had interrupted his training in 2009, but refused to say why. He would only say that Lubitz was eventually cleared to return to work, after passing fitness and psychological tests.
On Friday however, the German newspaper Bild said that the Lufthansa flight school in Phoenix, Arizona had designated Lubitz at the time as “not suitable for flying”.On Friday however, the German newspaper Bild said that the Lufthansa flight school in Phoenix, Arizona had designated Lubitz at the time as “not suitable for flying”.
The newspaper said he spent a year-and-a-half receiving psychiatric treatment. Several times he was forced to repeat his flying classes because of depression, before he successfully finished his training. In 2009 he was diagnosed with a “severe depressive episode”, Bild reported.The newspaper said he spent a year-and-a-half receiving psychiatric treatment. Several times he was forced to repeat his flying classes because of depression, before he successfully finished his training. In 2009 he was diagnosed with a “severe depressive episode”, Bild reported.
He was given “special regular medical examination” by a doctor as well as the coding “SIC”. This coding also appeared on his pilot’s licence.He was given “special regular medical examination” by a doctor as well as the coding “SIC”. This coding also appeared on his pilot’s licence.
Citing police sources, Bild said the investigation is examining whether Lubitz had been suffering from a “personal life crisis”. He is said to have had a relationship crisis with his girlfriend and to have suffered emotional problems. The local Westerwälder newspaper said Lubitz and his girlfriend had been together for seven years and were living in a flat in Düsseldorf.Citing police sources, Bild said the investigation is examining whether Lubitz had been suffering from a “personal life crisis”. He is said to have had a relationship crisis with his girlfriend and to have suffered emotional problems. The local Westerwälder newspaper said Lubitz and his girlfriend had been together for seven years and were living in a flat in Düsseldorf.
Lufthansa has yet to respond to the claims. Bild, Germany’s best-selling newspaper, is normally – though not always – a reliable source of news, and has an extensive network of sources.Lufthansa has yet to respond to the claims. Bild, Germany’s best-selling newspaper, is normally – though not always – a reliable source of news, and has an extensive network of sources.
7.31pm AEST08:317.31pm AEST08:31
Aviation consultant Gideon Ewers speaking on Sky, is questioning the French prosecutors “speculative” assertions in yesterday’s press conference. Any such information should only have been given after a complete technical investigation, he added.Aviation consultant Gideon Ewers speaking on Sky, is questioning the French prosecutors “speculative” assertions in yesterday’s press conference. Any such information should only have been given after a complete technical investigation, he added.
I’m saying we have an incomplete picture. It ridiculous to make these accusations at this stage of an investigation.I’m saying we have an incomplete picture. It ridiculous to make these accusations at this stage of an investigation.
6.52pm AEST07:526.52pm AEST07:52
Here is Reuters’ take on the background of Andreas Lubitz:Here is Reuters’ take on the background of Andreas Lubitz:
The pilot who appears to have deliberately crashed a plane carrying 149 others into the French Alps received psychiatric treatment for a “serious depressive episode” six years ago, German tabloid Bild reported on Friday.The pilot who appears to have deliberately crashed a plane carrying 149 others into the French Alps received psychiatric treatment for a “serious depressive episode” six years ago, German tabloid Bild reported on Friday.
Prosecutors in France, after listening to the cockpit voice recorders, offered no motive for why Andreas Lubitz, 27, would take the controls of the Airbus A320, lock the captain out of the cockpit and deliberately set it veering down from cruising altitude at 3,000 feet per minute.Prosecutors in France, after listening to the cockpit voice recorders, offered no motive for why Andreas Lubitz, 27, would take the controls of the Airbus A320, lock the captain out of the cockpit and deliberately set it veering down from cruising altitude at 3,000 feet per minute.
Citing internal documents and Lufthansa sources, Bild said Lubitz spent a total of one and a half years in psychiatric treatment and that the relevant documents would be passed to French investigators once they had been examined by German authorities.Citing internal documents and Lufthansa sources, Bild said Lubitz spent a total of one and a half years in psychiatric treatment and that the relevant documents would be passed to French investigators once they had been examined by German authorities.
Lufthansa Chief Executive Carsten Spohr told a news conference on Thursday that Lubitz had taken a break during his training six years ago, but did not explain why and said he had passed all tests to be fit to fly.Lufthansa Chief Executive Carsten Spohr told a news conference on Thursday that Lubitz had taken a break during his training six years ago, but did not explain why and said he had passed all tests to be fit to fly.
“Six years ago there was a lengthy interruption in his training. After he was cleared again, he resumed training. He passed all the subsequent tests and checks with flying colors. His flying abilities were flawless,” Spohr said.“Six years ago there was a lengthy interruption in his training. After he was cleared again, he resumed training. He passed all the subsequent tests and checks with flying colors. His flying abilities were flawless,” Spohr said.
6.38pm AEST07:386.38pm AEST07:38
Good morning, this is Alexandra Topping taking over the Germanwings crash liveblog in LondonGood morning, this is Alexandra Topping taking over the Germanwings crash liveblog in London
5.56pm AEST06:565.56pm AEST06:56
SummarySummary
Here’s what we currently know about the investigation into the Germanwings crash and Andreas Lubitz, the co-pilot who deliberately steered the plane into the Alps, killing all 150 people on board:Here’s what we currently know about the investigation into the Germanwings crash and Andreas Lubitz, the co-pilot who deliberately steered the plane into the Alps, killing all 150 people on board:
None of this confirmed. But Bild is citing police sources and is generally - though not always - reliable. If true, v bad for LufthansaNone of this confirmed. But Bild is citing police sources and is generally - though not always - reliable. If true, v bad for Lufthansa
Updated at 6.13pm AESTUpdated at 6.13pm AEST
5.11pm AEST06:115.11pm AEST06:11
The Guardian’s Luke Harding, our former Berlin correspondent, reports a potentially alarming development coming out of the German newspaper Bild Zeitung.The Guardian’s Luke Harding, our former Berlin correspondent, reports a potentially alarming development coming out of the German newspaper Bild Zeitung.
There is no way of confirming this independently at the moment but the paper claims Lubitz stopped his training to be a pilot six years ago because he was suffering from “psychological problems”.There is no way of confirming this independently at the moment but the paper claims Lubitz stopped his training to be a pilot six years ago because he was suffering from “psychological problems”.
On Thursday Lufthansa’s chief executive Carsten Spohr declined to give details of his medical history.On Thursday Lufthansa’s chief executive Carsten Spohr declined to give details of his medical history.
The newspaper, however, said that the Lufthansa flight school in Phoenix designated Lubitz at the time as “not suitable for flying”.The newspaper, however, said that the Lufthansa flight school in Phoenix designated Lubitz at the time as “not suitable for flying”.
He spent a year-and-a-half receiving psychiatric treatment, it said. Several times he was forced to repeat his flying classes because of depression, before he successfully finished his training. In 2009 he was diagnosed with a “severe depressive episode”, Bild reported.He spent a year-and-a-half receiving psychiatric treatment, it said. Several times he was forced to repeat his flying classes because of depression, before he successfully finished his training. In 2009 he was diagnosed with a “severe depressive episode”, Bild reported.
He was given “special regular medical examination” by a doctor as well as the coding “SIC”. This coding also appeared on his pilot’s license.He was given “special regular medical examination” by a doctor as well as the coding “SIC”. This coding also appeared on his pilot’s license.
Citing police sources, Bild said the investigation is examining whether Lubitz had been suffering from a “personal life crisis”.Citing police sources, Bild said the investigation is examining whether Lubitz had been suffering from a “personal life crisis”.
4.14pm AEST05:144.14pm AEST05:14
Investigators will be trying to piece together the life of Andreas Lubitz, looking for a motive for his actions. Last night they could be seen removing items from his apartment in Dusseldorf as well as his parents home in Montabaur. The picture below clearly shows a computer being removed.Investigators will be trying to piece together the life of Andreas Lubitz, looking for a motive for his actions. Last night they could be seen removing items from his apartment in Dusseldorf as well as his parents home in Montabaur. The picture below clearly shows a computer being removed.
3.56pm AEST04:563.56pm AEST04:56
The New York Times, which yesterday broke the story that one of the pilots had been locked out the cockpit, also looks at pilot psychology.The New York Times, which yesterday broke the story that one of the pilots had been locked out the cockpit, also looks at pilot psychology.
A different piece here - but it makes for interesting reading.A different piece here - but it makes for interesting reading.
The part of a pilot’s life that had to be utterly consistent was the routine of operating the aircraft. Personality was not supposed to be an issue in the cockpit.The part of a pilot’s life that had to be utterly consistent was the routine of operating the aircraft. Personality was not supposed to be an issue in the cockpit.
3.35pm AEST04:353.35pm AEST04:35
The subject of mental health screening for pilots has been widely discussed following the crash. We reported this earlier.The subject of mental health screening for pilots has been widely discussed following the crash. We reported this earlier.
AP has now filed a report interrogating this further, talking to US pilots about their experiences of screening.AP has now filed a report interrogating this further, talking to US pilots about their experiences of screening.
In the US the Federal Aviation Administration requires that pilots receive a physical exam from a flight surgeon annually or every six months depending upon the pilot’s age.In the US the Federal Aviation Administration requires that pilots receive a physical exam from a flight surgeon annually or every six months depending upon the pilot’s age.
The International Civil Aviation Organisation, a UN agency that sets global aviation standards, also requires that pilots receive a periodic medical exam including a mental assessment.The International Civil Aviation Organisation, a UN agency that sets global aviation standards, also requires that pilots receive a periodic medical exam including a mental assessment.
Technically, doctors are supposed to probe for mental problems, but pilots said Thursday that’s usually not how it works.Technically, doctors are supposed to probe for mental problems, but pilots said Thursday that’s usually not how it works.
“There really is no mental health vetting,” said John Gadzinski, a captain with a major US airline and former Navy pilot. In 29 years of physicals from flight surgeons he’s never once been asked about his mental health, he said.“There really is no mental health vetting,” said John Gadzinski, a captain with a major US airline and former Navy pilot. In 29 years of physicals from flight surgeons he’s never once been asked about his mental health, he said.
Bob Kudwa, a former American Airlines pilot and executive who maintains his commercial pilot’s license, said: “They check your eyes, your ears, your heart all the things that start going bad when you get older. But they don’t do anything for your head, no.”Bob Kudwa, a former American Airlines pilot and executive who maintains his commercial pilot’s license, said: “They check your eyes, your ears, your heart all the things that start going bad when you get older. But they don’t do anything for your head, no.”
There also is no confidential reporting, Gadzinski said. “If you had a mental health issue, you certainly wouldn’t tell your flight surgeon about that because it goes right to the FAA,” he said.There also is no confidential reporting, Gadzinski said. “If you had a mental health issue, you certainly wouldn’t tell your flight surgeon about that because it goes right to the FAA,” he said.
Pilots are also required to disclose existing psychological conditions and medications on health forms, Gadzinski said.Pilots are also required to disclose existing psychological conditions and medications on health forms, Gadzinski said.
“Is this really the best way? Ask the guy who is mentally ill if he’s mentally ill and if he says ‘no’ then, hey, we’re good to go?” he said.“Is this really the best way? Ask the guy who is mentally ill if he’s mentally ill and if he says ‘no’ then, hey, we’re good to go?” he said.
Europe has a single standard for pilot medical exams. “These medical assessments are done by doctors with a specialty in aviation health. ... They know what to look for, physically and mentally,” said Richard Taylor, a spokesman for the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority.Europe has a single standard for pilot medical exams. “These medical assessments are done by doctors with a specialty in aviation health. ... They know what to look for, physically and mentally,” said Richard Taylor, a spokesman for the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority.
2.19pm AEST03:192.19pm AEST03:19
SummarySummary
Here’s the latest on the investigation into the Germanwings crash and Andreas Lubitz, the co-pilot who deliberately steered the plane into the Alps, killing all 150 people on board:Here’s the latest on the investigation into the Germanwings crash and Andreas Lubitz, the co-pilot who deliberately steered the plane into the Alps, killing all 150 people on board:
1.08pm AEST02:081.08pm AEST02:08
Tributes to the victims – in picturesTributes to the victims – in pictures
12.50pm AEST01:5012.50pm AEST01:50
Andreas Lubitz carried out part of his pilot training in Arizona, ABC News reports.Andreas Lubitz carried out part of his pilot training in Arizona, ABC News reports.
He attended the Airline Training Center Arizona, owned by Lufthansa, in 2008.He attended the Airline Training Center Arizona, owned by Lufthansa, in 2008.
Peter Ruecker, a member of the same flying club as Lubitz in Germany, told the Associated Press that the latter had talked to him about training in the US:Peter Ruecker, a member of the same flying club as Lubitz in Germany, told the Associated Press that the latter had talked to him about training in the US:
He seemed very happy that he got the job, beforehand he had training in the United States for three years, and we met him here again when he returned to renew his licence and we talked for some time.He seemed very happy that he got the job, beforehand he had training in the United States for three years, and we met him here again when he returned to renew his licence and we talked for some time.
He told us about how it was in America, how he did his training there, and he seemed to be very open and happy that he made it that far.He told us about how it was in America, how he did his training there, and he seemed to be very open and happy that he made it that far.
Updated at 12.53pm AESTUpdated at 12.53pm AEST
12.36pm AEST01:3612.36pm AEST01:36
Friday’s front pages of some UK newspapers have already attracted some criticism on Twitter for their apparent lack of sensitivity in reporting the possible motivations of Andreas Lubitz in piloting the plane into the mountainside:Friday’s front pages of some UK newspapers have already attracted some criticism on Twitter for their apparent lack of sensitivity in reporting the possible motivations of Andreas Lubitz in piloting the plane into the mountainside:
@S_Dockery I don't think the British papers have on the whole dealt with the issue of depression very sensitively though@S_Dockery I don't think the British papers have on the whole dealt with the issue of depression very sensitively though
Whatever is the cause of the #Germanwings tragedy, it is not 'depression'. All of you rely on people with depression every single day.Whatever is the cause of the #Germanwings tragedy, it is not 'depression'. All of you rely on people with depression every single day.
Here are some of the front pages in question; all images are courtesy of the BBC’s @hendopolis.Here are some of the front pages in question; all images are courtesy of the BBC’s @hendopolis.
A reminder of what we know at this point about Lubitz’s mental health:A reminder of what we know at this point about Lubitz’s mental health:
Lubitz had taken a break of several months from his pilot training. Carsten Spohr, Lufthansa’s chief executive, said there was nothing unusual about this but that he could not and “may not” give the reason for this for reasons of medical confidentiality.Lubitz had taken a break of several months from his pilot training. Carsten Spohr, Lufthansa’s chief executive, said there was nothing unusual about this but that he could not and “may not” give the reason for this for reasons of medical confidentiality.
The Lufthansa boss said the interruption in the training occurred six years ago. A journalist from Der Spiegel, reporting from Montabaur, cited acquaintances as saying that the break in 2009 was down to stress – “because of burnout or depression”.The Lufthansa boss said the interruption in the training occurred six years ago. A journalist from Der Spiegel, reporting from Montabaur, cited acquaintances as saying that the break in 2009 was down to stress – “because of burnout or depression”.
Spohr said Lubitz was judged fit to resume the training scheme a few months later and then passed all the medical, psychological and flying tests. He went on to clock up 630 flight hours.Spohr said Lubitz was judged fit to resume the training scheme a few months later and then passed all the medical, psychological and flying tests. He went on to clock up 630 flight hours.
Spohr said Lubitz was “100% fit for flying”, but did not explain why he took a break of several months from his pilot training six years ago.Spohr said Lubitz was “100% fit for flying”, but did not explain why he took a break of several months from his pilot training six years ago.
“We can only speculate what might have been the motivation of the co-pilot,” Spohr said.“We can only speculate what might have been the motivation of the co-pilot,” Spohr said.
Updated at 12.39pm AESTUpdated at 12.39pm AEST
12.01pm AEST01:0112.01pm AEST01:01
Passengers flying since the revelations yesterday that the Germanwings co-pilot deliberately took down the plane can be forgiven for feeling apprehensive. This report from Bloomberg is telling of how pilots themselves are attempting to assuage fears:Passengers flying since the revelations yesterday that the Germanwings co-pilot deliberately took down the plane can be forgiven for feeling apprehensive. This report from Bloomberg is telling of how pilots themselves are attempting to assuage fears:
An Air Berlin Plc pilot took it upon himself to tell passengers that he’d always have a second person in the cockpit during a German domestic flight from Stuttgart to Berlin, according to a Bloomberg reporter on the service.An Air Berlin Plc pilot took it upon himself to tell passengers that he’d always have a second person in the cockpit during a German domestic flight from Stuttgart to Berlin, according to a Bloomberg reporter on the service.
“I guess you all boarded with a queasy feeling today,” the captain said. “I for myself decided to change procedures today. There will always be a second person in the cockpit.”“I guess you all boarded with a queasy feeling today,” the captain said. “I for myself decided to change procedures today. There will always be a second person in the cockpit.”
11.49am AEST00:4911.49am AEST00:49
Airlines adopting two-person cockpit rule: round-upAirlines adopting two-person cockpit rule: round-up
An update on the airlines that have said they will also adopt the policy of having two people in the cockpit at all times:An update on the airlines that have said they will also adopt the policy of having two people in the cockpit at all times:
Have changed their policyHave changed their policy
Already had a two-person ruleAlready had a two-person rule
No current plan to change policyNo current plan to change policy
No commentNo comment
We will update this list if more airlines adapt their procedures today.We will update this list if more airlines adapt their procedures today.
11.28am AEST00:2811.28am AEST00:28
The Canadian government has said that all Canadian airlines must have two crew members in the cockpit at all times following the Germanwings crash.The Canadian government has said that all Canadian airlines must have two crew members in the cockpit at all times following the Germanwings crash.
The order came from transport minister Lisa Raitt; I’ve taken her quotes from the Toronto Star:The order came from transport minister Lisa Raitt; I’ve taken her quotes from the Toronto Star:
In light of the reports this morning … I am issuing an order to require two members on the flight deck at all times on Canadian planes.In light of the reports this morning … I am issuing an order to require two members on the flight deck at all times on Canadian planes.
This order is seeking to fill a gap that is in the rules. Currently, there is not the requirement to have two members.This order is seeking to fill a gap that is in the rules. Currently, there is not the requirement to have two members.
All we’re saying is that you have to have two crew members in the flight deck at all times. It doesn’t matter who it’s going to be. It could be a flight attendant, it could be a customer service person, but they have to be members of the cabin crew .All we’re saying is that you have to have two crew members in the flight deck at all times. It doesn’t matter who it’s going to be. It could be a flight attendant, it could be a customer service person, but they have to be members of the cabin crew .
We are following this situation in Europe very closely. And I’ve asked my officials to take a look at all of our policies and procedures here in Canada that may be applicable to ensure that there is safety for the travelling public.We are following this situation in Europe very closely. And I’ve asked my officials to take a look at all of our policies and procedures here in Canada that may be applicable to ensure that there is safety for the travelling public.
Airlines Air Canada, Westjet and Air Transat said they would adopt the new policy. Regional carrier Porter said this had always been its rule.Airlines Air Canada, Westjet and Air Transat said they would adopt the new policy. Regional carrier Porter said this had always been its rule.
11.17am AEST00:1711.17am AEST00:17
In the wake of the shocking revelation that Andreas Lubitz deliberately steered the plane into a mountain, several airlines have announced that they will implement a two-person cockpit rule:In the wake of the shocking revelation that Andreas Lubitz deliberately steered the plane into a mountain, several airlines have announced that they will implement a two-person cockpit rule:
Norwegian Air Shuttle was one of the first to announce the rule. “When one person leaves the cockpit, two people will now have to be there,” said Thomas Hesthammer, flight operations director for the budget operator. “We have been discussing this for a long time, but this development has accelerated things.”Norwegian Air Shuttle was one of the first to announce the rule. “When one person leaves the cockpit, two people will now have to be there,” said Thomas Hesthammer, flight operations director for the budget operator. “We have been discussing this for a long time, but this development has accelerated things.”
The Canadian charter airline Air Transat also said it would be introducing the rule, while easyJet was the first airline in the UK to announce it would implement the rule from Friday. “The safety and security of its passengers and crew is the airline’s highest priority,” an easyJet spokesperson said.The Canadian charter airline Air Transat also said it would be introducing the rule, while easyJet was the first airline in the UK to announce it would implement the rule from Friday. “The safety and security of its passengers and crew is the airline’s highest priority,” an easyJet spokesperson said.
US airlines have tended to take this precaution even before Tuesday’s accident.US airlines have tended to take this precaution even before Tuesday’s accident.
But aviation journalist John Walton warns that there is more to cockpit security than this:But aviation journalist John Walton warns that there is more to cockpit security than this:
It seems clear many airlines are moving to two-person flight deck procedures after #4U9525. Simple fix and has merit, but not a panacea.It seems clear many airlines are moving to two-person flight deck procedures after #4U9525. Simple fix and has merit, but not a panacea.
The principal purpose of a 2-person flight deck rule, FYI, is so the second person can unlock the door to the other pilot. #4U9525The principal purpose of a 2-person flight deck rule, FYI, is so the second person can unlock the door to the other pilot. #4U9525
He points out that a “rogue” pilot intent on bringing down a plane might still be able to prevent the door from opening. And he explains on this blog:He points out that a “rogue” pilot intent on bringing down a plane might still be able to prevent the door from opening. And he explains on this blog:
Under the strengthened cockpit door protocols put in place after the attacks of September 11, the door can be opened only at the discretion of flight crew on the flight deck …Under the strengthened cockpit door protocols put in place after the attacks of September 11, the door can be opened only at the discretion of flight crew on the flight deck …
As security expert Bruce Schneier explains, there were truly only two things that improved aviation safety in the post-9/11 world: ‘the reinforcement of cockpit doors, and the fact that passengers know now to resist hijackers’.As security expert Bruce Schneier explains, there were truly only two things that improved aviation safety in the post-9/11 world: ‘the reinforcement of cockpit doors, and the fact that passengers know now to resist hijackers’.
After Germanwings flight 9525 — as well as past questions raised by SilkAir 185, Egyptair 990, Royal Air Maroc 630, LAM 470 and other flights — is it time to revisit whether the security provided by passenger resistance might be enough, or whether adequate checks and balances have been built into flight deck security?After Germanwings flight 9525 — as well as past questions raised by SilkAir 185, Egyptair 990, Royal Air Maroc 630, LAM 470 and other flights — is it time to revisit whether the security provided by passenger resistance might be enough, or whether adequate checks and balances have been built into flight deck security?
11.07am AEST00:0711.07am AEST00:07
The Daily Mail quotes a spokesman for investigators involved in the search of Lubitz’s home in Düsseldorf, from which a computer and laptop were reportedly taken by officers:The Daily Mail quotes a spokesman for investigators involved in the search of Lubitz’s home in Düsseldorf, from which a computer and laptop were reportedly taken by officers:
We wanted to search to see if we could find something that would explain what happened.We wanted to search to see if we could find something that would explain what happened.
We have found something which will now be taken for tests. We cannot say what it is at the moment but it may be very significant clue to what has happened. We hope it may give some explanations.We have found something which will now be taken for tests. We cannot say what it is at the moment but it may be very significant clue to what has happened. We hope it may give some explanations.
10.57am AEST23:5710.57am AEST23:57
We have some more photos from the police operation to search the home of Andreas Lubitz in Düsseldorf:We have some more photos from the police operation to search the home of Andreas Lubitz in Düsseldorf:
Investigators have also searched the Montabaur home of Lubitz’s parents and have removed bags of items from the property:Investigators have also searched the Montabaur home of Lubitz’s parents and have removed bags of items from the property:
10.44am AEST23:4410.44am AEST23:44
Aviation lawyers: pilots alone in cockpit 'a known risk'Aviation lawyers: pilots alone in cockpit 'a known risk'
Lufthansa and its subsidiary Germanwings could face huge legal liabilities “well above the typical ceiling in airline crashes” over Tuesday’s crash, Reuters reports, citing aviation lawyers:Lufthansa and its subsidiary Germanwings could face huge legal liabilities “well above the typical ceiling in airline crashes” over Tuesday’s crash, Reuters reports, citing aviation lawyers:
A lot will depend on whether the airline can defend itself against negligence claims given that prosecutors said on Thursday that a young German co-pilot locked himself alone in the cockpit of the Airbus A320 and set it on course to crash, killing all 144 passengers and six crew members.A lot will depend on whether the airline can defend itself against negligence claims given that prosecutors said on Thursday that a young German co-pilot locked himself alone in the cockpit of the Airbus A320 and set it on course to crash, killing all 144 passengers and six crew members.
An international agreement generally limits airline liability to around US$157,400 (£105,000, AU$200,000) for each passenger who dies in a crash if families do not sue, but if families want to pursue compensation for greater damages, they can file lawsuits.An international agreement generally limits airline liability to around US$157,400 (£105,000, AU$200,000) for each passenger who dies in a crash if families do not sue, but if families want to pursue compensation for greater damages, they can file lawsuits.
Lawyers who have represented families in past airline disasters told Reuters on Thursday that potential lawsuits could focus on whether Germanwings properly screened the co-pilot before and during his employment, and on whether the airline should have had a policy requiring two or more people in cockpits at all times during a flight.Lawyers who have represented families in past airline disasters told Reuters on Thursday that potential lawsuits could focus on whether Germanwings properly screened the co-pilot before and during his employment, and on whether the airline should have had a policy requiring two or more people in cockpits at all times during a flight.
Justin Green, a partner at the law firm Kreindler & Kreindler in New York, said passengers’ families would be justified in asking why Andreas Lubitz was allowed to be alone in the cockpit.Justin Green, a partner at the law firm Kreindler & Kreindler in New York, said passengers’ families would be justified in asking why Andreas Lubitz was allowed to be alone in the cockpit.
Pilots may temporarily leave the cockpit at certain times and in certain circumstances, such as while the aircraft is cruising, according to German aviation law.Pilots may temporarily leave the cockpit at certain times and in certain circumstances, such as while the aircraft is cruising, according to German aviation law.
Even if the practice was allowed, though, “this has been a known risk,” Green said. He noted that some investigators believed that pilots intentionally downed a SilkAir aircraft in 1997 and an EgyptAir aircraft in 1999.Even if the practice was allowed, though, “this has been a known risk,” Green said. He noted that some investigators believed that pilots intentionally downed a SilkAir aircraft in 1997 and an EgyptAir aircraft in 1999.
“This idea that one pilot could murder everyone on board and kill himself is something that’s happened before and something that everyone knew about,” Green said.“This idea that one pilot could murder everyone on board and kill himself is something that’s happened before and something that everyone knew about,” Green said.
Lufthansa will abide by international agreements dictating liability, its chief executive Carsten Spohr said. “Honestly, it’s one of my smaller worries,” he told journalists on Thursday. “We will be able to meet the financial liabilities. Our first priority is to help the families where we can.”Lufthansa will abide by international agreements dictating liability, its chief executive Carsten Spohr said. “Honestly, it’s one of my smaller worries,” he told journalists on Thursday. “We will be able to meet the financial liabilities. Our first priority is to help the families where we can.”
Under an international agreement known as the Montreal Convention of 1999, an airline generally cannot escape liability for a passenger death.Under an international agreement known as the Montreal Convention of 1999, an airline generally cannot escape liability for a passenger death.
For each death, a carrier can be liable for up to 113,100 special drawing rights, a reserve asset created by the International Monetary Fund. On Tuesday, the amount was equal to about $157,400, or $22.7m for 144 passengers.For each death, a carrier can be liable for up to 113,100 special drawing rights, a reserve asset created by the International Monetary Fund. On Tuesday, the amount was equal to about $157,400, or $22.7m for 144 passengers.
The potential lawsuits for additional damages could be filed in any of several jurisdictions, including Germany, where Germanwings is based, and a number of different home countries of the passengers, such as Spain.The potential lawsuits for additional damages could be filed in any of several jurisdictions, including Germany, where Germanwings is based, and a number of different home countries of the passengers, such as Spain.
Passengers’ families are limited to claiming provable damages, which vary depending on the jurisdiction but may include loss of support and pain and suffering, the lawyers said.Passengers’ families are limited to claiming provable damages, which vary depending on the jurisdiction but may include loss of support and pain and suffering, the lawyers said.
Bruce Ottley, co-director of the International Aviation Law Institute at DePaul University College of Law, said he was sceptical that Germanwings would need to pay above the Montreal Convention limit unless there is evidence the airline knew in advance the co-pilot was at risk.Bruce Ottley, co-director of the International Aviation Law Institute at DePaul University College of Law, said he was sceptical that Germanwings would need to pay above the Montreal Convention limit unless there is evidence the airline knew in advance the co-pilot was at risk.
But Ottley said airlines choose to settle legal claims in the vast majority of crashes, so the issues may never go to a judge or jury. “Very rarely do these things ever, ever go to trial,” he said.But Ottley said airlines choose to settle legal claims in the vast majority of crashes, so the issues may never go to a judge or jury. “Very rarely do these things ever, ever go to trial,” he said.
For Germanwings to limit its liability, it would have to establish that it and its employees and agents were not in any way at fault or that the accident had been caused solely by the fault of a third party, said Clive Garner, a partner at the law firm Irwin Mitchell in London. The firm has represented passengers’ families in other aviation accidents, including a crash in Nepal in 2012.For Germanwings to limit its liability, it would have to establish that it and its employees and agents were not in any way at fault or that the accident had been caused solely by the fault of a third party, said Clive Garner, a partner at the law firm Irwin Mitchell in London. The firm has represented passengers’ families in other aviation accidents, including a crash in Nepal in 2012.
“Given this scenario and what we know at the moment, Germanwings would be unlikely to be able to establish a relevant defence,” Garner wrote in an email.“Given this scenario and what we know at the moment, Germanwings would be unlikely to be able to establish a relevant defence,” Garner wrote in an email.
A $6.5m claim for the loss of the plane itself was paid on Wednesday, insurance industry sources said.A $6.5m claim for the loss of the plane itself was paid on Wednesday, insurance industry sources said.
Germany’s Allianz is the lead insurer in the case, sharing the financial burden of the loss with other insurance companies.Germany’s Allianz is the lead insurer in the case, sharing the financial burden of the loss with other insurance companies.
Updated at 10.44am AESTUpdated at 10.44am AEST
10.29am AEST23:2910.29am AEST23:29
Spanish newspaper El Pais also leads its Friday edition with the questions over why Lubitz forced the plane to descend:Spanish newspaper El Pais also leads its Friday edition with the questions over why Lubitz forced the plane to descend:
Investigan la razón por la que el copiloto estrelló el avión; Arabia Saudí bombardea Yemen... http://t.co/iNlxYJigcv pic.twitter.com/mKfECtdr5jInvestigan la razón por la que el copiloto estrelló el avión; Arabia Saudí bombardea Yemen... http://t.co/iNlxYJigcv pic.twitter.com/mKfECtdr5j
10.14am AEST23:1410.14am AEST23:14
Luke Harding adds these observations after scouring the local press:Luke Harding adds these observations after scouring the local press:
According to Der Spiegel, citing friends of the pilot, Lubitz broke off his training because he was suffering from “burn-out syndrome or depression”.According to Der Spiegel, citing friends of the pilot, Lubitz broke off his training because he was suffering from “burn-out syndrome or depression”.
Neighbours, however, said he showed no sign of unhappiness or stress. One friend quoted by the local Rhein-Zeitung newspaper posted on a social network: “Only yesterday we talked about what we could do after you got back. Every day you made me laugh …”Neighbours, however, said he showed no sign of unhappiness or stress. One friend quoted by the local Rhein-Zeitung newspaper posted on a social network: “Only yesterday we talked about what we could do after you got back. Every day you made me laugh …”
Others described Lubitz as a “completely inconspicuous” young man who could be often seen jogging round the neighbourhood.Others described Lubitz as a “completely inconspicuous” young man who could be often seen jogging round the neighbourhood.
Every spring between 2010 and 2013 he took part in the Lufthansa half marathon in Frankfurt, clocking up a time on his last run of 1 hour and 37 minutes. When not jogging he wore jeans, rather than his pilot’s uniform.Every spring between 2010 and 2013 he took part in the Lufthansa half marathon in Frankfurt, clocking up a time on his last run of 1 hour and 37 minutes. When not jogging he wore jeans, rather than his pilot’s uniform.
Updated at 10.25am AESTUpdated at 10.25am AEST
10.12am AEST23:1210.12am AEST23:12
Meanwhile this was the scene earlier in Montabaur outside the home of Lubitz’s parents.Meanwhile this was the scene earlier in Montabaur outside the home of Lubitz’s parents.
10.07am AEST23:0710.07am AEST23:07
The papers have been rolling off the presses in Europe. Bild, the popular German tabloid has a different image of Lubitz.The papers have been rolling off the presses in Europe. Bild, the popular German tabloid has a different image of Lubitz.
BILD: Der Amok-Pilot #tomorrowspaperstoday pic.twitter.com/Y2wPeaVpq8BILD: Der Amok-Pilot #tomorrowspaperstoday pic.twitter.com/Y2wPeaVpq8
Updated at 10.25am AESTUpdated at 10.25am AEST
10.00am AEST23:0010.00am AEST23:00
Our correspondent Luke Harding is in Montabaur. He has just sent this report:Our correspondent Luke Harding is in Montabaur. He has just sent this report:
German investigators have removed documents and a computer from the home of Andreas Lubitz in the small town of Montabaur, between Cologne and Frankfurt in the west of Germany.German investigators have removed documents and a computer from the home of Andreas Lubitz in the small town of Montabaur, between Cologne and Frankfurt in the west of Germany.
Lubitz grew up in Montabaur – population 15,000 – and attended the local Mons-Tabor Gymnasium or grammar school. There was no sign of his parents who are believed to have gone to the crash scene in France.Lubitz grew up in Montabaur – population 15,000 – and attended the local Mons-Tabor Gymnasium or grammar school. There was no sign of his parents who are believed to have gone to the crash scene in France.
Detectives were concentrating their search on two properties: Lubitz’s family home in Montabaur and a flat he is believed to have rented in Dusseldorf.Detectives were concentrating their search on two properties: Lubitz’s family home in Montabaur and a flat he is believed to have rented in Dusseldorf.
The family live in a large two-storey detached house, with a pleasant balcony, on Am Spiessweiher street, close to an apostolic church. Their garden is immaculately tended. It has daffodils, ornamental shrubs and a perfectly sculpted hedge. His mother played the organ in another evangelical church, neighbours said. Lubitz has a younger brother.The family live in a large two-storey detached house, with a pleasant balcony, on Am Spiessweiher street, close to an apostolic church. Their garden is immaculately tended. It has daffodils, ornamental shrubs and a perfectly sculpted hedge. His mother played the organ in another evangelical church, neighbours said. Lubitz has a younger brother.
One local said that he knew Lubitz “by sight” and saw him from time to time working out in the town’s fitness centre. “I just knew him to look at. He was a sporting kind of guy,” he said.One local said that he knew Lubitz “by sight” and saw him from time to time working out in the town’s fitness centre. “I just knew him to look at. He was a sporting kind of guy,” he said.
Lubitz attended the Mons-Tabor school, which offers students a humanist education, and completed his German high school diploma, the Arbitur, there in 2007.Lubitz attended the Mons-Tabor school, which offers students a humanist education, and completed his German high school diploma, the Arbitur, there in 2007.
9.56am AEST22:569.56am AEST22:56
Police have been searching the home of Lubitz in the German city of Dusseldorf as well as the family home in the town of Montabaur.Police have been searching the home of Lubitz in the German city of Dusseldorf as well as the family home in the town of Montabaur.
9.53am AEST22:539.53am AEST22:53
Welcome back to our continuing coverage of the Germanwings crash.Welcome back to our continuing coverage of the Germanwings crash.
The focus of the investigation has dramatically switched in the past 24 hours to focus on the co-pilot of flight 4U9525, Andreas Lubitz. It is now suspected he deliberately flew his plane, its passengers and crew into the side of a mountain in the French Alps, killing all.The focus of the investigation has dramatically switched in the past 24 hours to focus on the co-pilot of flight 4U9525, Andreas Lubitz. It is now suspected he deliberately flew his plane, its passengers and crew into the side of a mountain in the French Alps, killing all.
Below is a summary of where we are with this tragic story and we will be updating as the day goes on.Below is a summary of where we are with this tragic story and we will be updating as the day goes on.
Updated at 10.26am AESTUpdated at 10.26am AEST
9.53am AEST22:539.53am AEST22:53
SummarySummary
Here are the major developments in the aftermath and investigation of the Germanwings crash in the French Alps that killed 150 people.Here are the major developments in the aftermath and investigation of the Germanwings crash in the French Alps that killed 150 people.
Updated at 10.30am AESTUpdated at 10.30am AEST