Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Comores Infos
Published on 2024-03-29 16:27:30
In an appeal trial that concluded on March 28, 2024, the public prosecutors have requested the maximum fine against Yemenia Airways for the tragic crash of one of its planes off the coast of the Comoros in 2009. The accident resulted in the loss of 152 lives, leaving only one survivor, a 12-year-old girl.
The public prosecutors have requested the confirmation of the sentences handed down in the first instance two years ago, which includes a maximum fine of 225,000 euros for involuntary manslaughter and injury. The appeal trial ended with the defense arguments, which highlighted the conclusions of judicial expertise stating the absence of technical failures of the aircraft and the quality of pilot training.
However, investigations, including the analysis of the black boxes, have revealed pilot errors. The defense emphasized the shared responsibility of the Moroni airport and the Agency for Air Navigation Safety in Africa and Madagascar (ASECNA), arguing that the company should not be solely held accountable.
Yemenia Airways’ lawyers argued that the tragedy was the result of a series of exceptional circumstances during the flight, thereby escaping the responsibility of the company. They have therefore requested acquittal. The final decision on the fine and responsibility in this devastating drama now rests in the hands of the court.
Read the original article(French) on Comores Infos
