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"FBI probes punctures found in two airliners"
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
FBI probes punctures found in 2 airliners
The Associated Press
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - The FBI is investigating whether someone
intentionally punched small holes in the bellies of two US Airways
airliners.
No passengers were aboard the planes, which were temporarily grounded for
repairs Monday at Charlotte/Douglas International Airport. Airline officials
described the holes as similar to those made by a screwdriver,
characterizing them as minor exterior damage.
Investigators said the punctures were discovered during routine inspections
and resembled damage recently found on another US Airways jet in Florida.
They said the punctures were unlikely to be caused by normal wear and tear.
"Anything that has the potential of damaging the structural integrity of an
airplane, we're concerned about," said Kevin Kendrick, FBI special agent in
charge for North Carolina.
The FBI is investigating anyone who had access to the planes, including
baggage and garbage handlers, mechanics, pilots and people providing the
plane with fuel and food.
The two planes, a Boeing 737 and an Airbus 321, had come from Pensacola,
Fla., and Pittsburgh.
Earlier this week, the FBI said it was investigating mysterious holes found
on a plane that had flown to Orlando, Fla., after stopping in Charlotte.
The FBI has not linked the separate incidents, Kendrick said.
L. Nick Lacey, who headed flight standards for the Federal Aviation
Administration from 1998 to 2001, said holes on a plane's belly would be
enough to delay a departure but likely not enough to pose a danger to
passengers. The underside of the jets is mostly cargo space, not sensitive
equipment, he said.
"I think it was interesting that it was in a visible place," he said. "If it
was sabotage, there was no attempt to hide it."
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