Part 8/9:
Analyzing both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder revealed that loss of situational awareness was a principal factor leading to the crash of Flight 311. It showed how stress and an authoritarian pilot culture could lead to catastrophic errors. The lack of directional indicators on the navigation display—missing cardinal directions—further complicated matters.
In the aftermath, recommendations for improved training and technology emerged, focusing on enhanced crew resource management (CRM) and the installation of radar at Kathmandu airport. The tragic fate of Thai Airways Flight 311 underscored the need for better communication and a more collaborative approach in aviation, especially in high-stress environments.