U.S. plans to act after 'careless' BA flight (FAA weighs steps over 747's long route w/1 engine out)

International Herald Tribune ^ | Tuesday, March 8, 2005 | Don Phillips

[Paleo Conservative]

WASHINGTON Federal Aviation Administration officials said on Monday that they were preparing to take strong action against British Airways, including a charge of "careless and reckless operation of an aircraft," because of the airline's decision to allow a Boeing 747 to fly from California to England with one engine inoperable. Under normal circumstances, the United States would not take action against British Airways because such issues would be handled by Britain.

But senior U.S. aviation officials have become so concerned about the actions of the flight crew and its supervisors in London that they were preparing direct action.

"We will pursue every legal option available to us," said an FAA spokeswoman, Laura Brown.

British Airways expressed surprise over the developments.

"I am surprised that anyone at the FAA would make such statements," said Steve Shelterline, general manager for the 747 program with British Airways.

[John Locke]

So what's the difference between buring more fuel due to an IFSD and burning more fuel due to excessive headwind?

One, excessive headwind typically doesn't last the whole flight. Two, if it persists you simply change altitude.

Of course, with only 3 engines you also can't climb above the headwinds.