Lithuanian Authorities Cite Human Error as Likely Cause of DHL Cargo Plane Crash
Investigators have identified a disabled hydraulic system for deploying flaps as the likely cause and requested Spain to question the pilot as a suspect.
- A DHL-operated Boeing 737-400 cargo plane crashed near Vilnius airport on November 25, 2024, killing one Spanish crew member and injuring three others.
- Lithuanian investigators have determined that human error, specifically a disabled hydraulic system for deploying the plane’s flaps, likely caused the crash.
- The investigation has ruled out other potential causes, including sabotage or technical failure unrelated to human action.
- Lithuanian prosecutors have asked Spanish authorities to question the pilot, who is recovering in Spain, as a suspect in the crash.
- Authorities are considering legal charges, including negligence, inadequate maintenance, and actions leading to death and property destruction.