German Federal Office Takes Over Investigations After AUA Hail Flight

The Airbus A320 suffered severe damage from a thunderstorm with hail in Styria in June 2024. A passenger lawyer accuses the Federal Safety Investigation Authority (SUB) of obstructing the clarification of an incident on a flight from Palma de Mallorca to Vienna-Schwechat. The Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating the head and six employees of the SUB. "Ö1" reports that the SUB had independently asked neighboring investigation authorities to take over the investigations.

Ministry Understands Safety Investigation Authority's Decision on AUA Hail Flight

"From the ministry's perspective, I understand the decision of the Safety Investigation Authority. This way, the relevant cases can be investigated independently, neutrally, and with less emotionality," Hofbauer was quoted as saying. It is not possible to estimate when the investigations will be concluded. The colleagues from Switzerland and Germany must first thoroughly analyze the previous investigation steps, it was said.

AUA stated to "Ö1" that they have not received any official information at this time that the SUB is handing over the investigation to another authority. However, they are "still interested in a quick result of the investigations."

The AUA Airbus A320 encountered a thunderstorm cell and severe turbulence on June 9, 2024, on its way from Palma de Mallorca to Vienna. Initially, the emergency call "Mayday" was issued. Nevertheless, the aircraft landed safely at Vienna-Schwechat Airport, and no passengers were injured. However, the aircraft showed significant damage.

(APA/Red)

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