Key Findings from Investigation
A new investigation has revealed a shocking cause behind the 2022 China plane crash that killed all 132 people on board. According to data released by the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the aircraft’s fuel supply was cut off during flight.
The aircraft, a Boeing 737 operated by China Eastern Airlines, was cruising at around 29,000 feet when both engine fuel switches were moved to the “cut-off” position. This action stopped fuel from reaching the engines, causing a rapid loss of power.
Sudden and Rapid Descent
Flight tracking data shows the plane dropped thousands of meters within minutes. It went from about 29,100 feet to just over 9,000 feet in a little more than two minutes. The final signal placed the aircraft at a much lower altitude before it crashed into a hillside.
Air traffic controllers tried to contact the pilots during the descent, but there was no response.
Black Box Data Supports Theory
Investigators recovered the aircraft’s black box from the crash site. The data confirmed that engine performance dropped sharply right after the fuel switches were turned off.
Fuel switches are critical controls used by pilots to start or shut down engines. Their movement during normal flight is highly unusual, which has raised serious concerns about possible intentional action.
Flight Details and Timeline
The flight, MU5735, took off from Kunming and was heading to Guangzhou. It had been in the air for over an hour and was close to landing when the incident occurred.
This crash remains the deadliest aviation disaster in China in decades.
Ongoing Investigation and Unanswered Questions
China’s Civil Aviation Administration (CAA) is leading the investigation. Authorities have not yet released a final report, citing national security concerns.
Officials earlier stated that the flight crew were qualified, well-rested, and medically fit on the day of the flight. However, the exact reason behind the fuel switch movement remains unclear.
Investigators continue to examine whether the crash resulted from deliberate action, human error, or a technical issue.
