Washington Post – January 12, 2007 Presented by Alyssa Phillips

 January 13, 1982, set to take off from Washington National Airport on a very snowy day.  Co-Pilot Roger Pettit noticed something just wasn’t right and tried to notify the Pilot, Larry Wheaton.  Wheaton reportedly ignored the warning and the plane took off right before crashing into the 14 th St. Bridge and killing a total of 78 people.

 Although communication and management skills seem to be simple sometimes, they are often taken for granted and ignored.  The crash drew the attention to the fact that pilots need to have better communication.  This theory then radiated throughout other industries as well after the crash, including maritime, rail, and hospital industries.

 It was found that there was a problem in the way the plane was de-iced after reenacting the scene.  This projected industries to start making stricter safety measures.  A tape of the cockpit had listeners wondering why the pilot did not stop to investigate when going through the checklist and the “anti-ice” function was listed as off on such a snowy, cold day.

 While many industries are using checklists before starting a task to make sure the proper process is taken, leaders are saying not to be afraid to speak up.  If you see something that does not seem right, bring it to attention and be assuring with your suggestion.  One co- pilot had to make a quick decision before even consulting the pilot, and was correct with his way of thinking, saving lives in the act.

 It is important, especially in industries where safety and lives are at stake, to be strong communicators and stand up to what you feel is right.  If you see something that you do not think is right, do not be afraid to say something because you could end up being a hero instead of a victim.