WUZHOU, CHINA (WKRC) — New findings from a 2022 plane crash indicate possible intentional actions by one of the pilots, leading to 132 fatalities.
On March 21, 2022, China Eastern Airlines Flight from Kunming to Guangzhou crashed in Wuzhou, claiming the lives of 123 passengers and nine crew members. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), both engines' fuel switches were turned off in mid-air, and the flight recorders were manually deactivated.
Data suggests a struggle in the cockpit, with one pilot initiating a steep dive while the other attempted to regain control. An assessment from May 2022 indicated that “the plane did what it was told to do by someone in the cockpit,” according to a source familiar with the investigation.
The NTSB report indicates that the flight data recorder ceased functionality at 26,000 feet. Earlier reports from Chinese authorities noted no mechanical issues or adverse weather conditions before the crash. The Civil Aviation Administration of China confirmed the crew's licenses were valid and that health checks were passed on the day of the flight.
Amid the investigations, concerns have emerged regarding 59-year-old pilot Zhang Zhengping, who had faced demotion before the incident. The investigation continues as authorities review all information related to the crash.