NTSB seeks better communications after overflown flight

Federal safety officials are recommending better communication procedures after reviewing the Northwest Airlines flight that overshot the Minneapolis airport last year by more than 100 miles.

The National Transportation Safety Board issued its report Thursday to the Federal Aviation Administration, which runs the nation's air traffic control system.

One recommendation calls for air traffic controllers to document communication with pilots in a way that ensures critical information gets passed from one controller to another.

The board also suggests they begin emergency transmissions by saying, "on guard."

The two Northwest pilots told investigators they became distracted Oct. 21 while working on laptop computers. Their licenses have been revoked.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.