ntsb

Colgan Air, operator of the regional aircraft that crashed in Buffalo, N.Y., on Feb. 12, is defending its training and policies as the NTSB opens hearings into the incident. The company said Capt. Marvin Renslow had passed six consecutive hands-on tests, known as check rides, since joining the airline, but it was unaware of at least two tests he had failed as a general aviation pilot.

"Consistent with standard practice in the airline industry, Colgan did not attempt to access information on prior, general aviation check-ride failures," the company said. Combating rumors of fatigue and poor training, Colgan also noted that Renslow had "nearly 22 consecutive hours of time off before he reported for duty" and "all the training and experience" needed to fly the Bombardier Q400 aircraft. New York Times, The (05/11) Wall Street Journal, The (05/12)