Our sincere thoughts are with those who lost their lives or were injured in this tragedy and our sympathy is extended to their families and colleagues.
In this early stage of the investigation, many critical questions remain to be answered.
The Australian Federation of Air Pilots urges the media and commentators to refrain from conjecture and conclusions, thereby allowing the Australian Transport Safety Bureau to carry out a thorough investigation.
We stress the need to avoid speculation as to the contributing factors of this accident.
The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has international Standards and Recommended Practices for aircraft accident and incident Investigation (ie Annex 13).
Only an extensive, complete accident investigation conducted by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 (international standards and recommended practices for aircraft accident and incident Investigation) will provide the recommendations required to advance aviation safety and prevent reoccurrence.
ICAO Annex 13 — Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation www.icao.int/safety/airnavigation/aig/pages/documents.aspx