Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group "The Heritage of CRM"

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group & the Sikorsky HH-52A "Sea Guard" The Angel From Above

2010-02-08T18:03:00.000-08:00

A view of the rear section of the main cabin. Note the wide interior cabin ideal to handle passengers or the storage and transport of rescue equipment on a mission. The rear opening at the rear bulkhead leads into the rear empennage area
A forward look toward the flight deck with the large cabin door on the right hand side. Note the high interior cabin overhead ceiling where an average height person could stand fully upright. Unlike today EADS HH-65 Dolphin whoes cabin interior area are much smaller and present tight quarters to operate when compared to the Sikorsky HH-52A "Sea Guard"
A port forward view of aircraft 1416. Note the large out rigger float pontoon, which houses the left hand main landing gear. Unlike later models of the HH-52A that where U.S.C.G service 1416 was not equipped with pontoon "float bags"
A forward starboard view of aircraft 1416. Note the rescue winch over the main cabin entry door. The rescue hoist was a standard military model capable of lifting 600 lbs. Also seen open aft of the co-pilot window area is the engine access maintenance platform that when close is placed flushed with the fuselage

Aircraft 1416 sits inside the Broward Community College aviation maintenance hangar located at North Perry airport. The aircraft is fully complete, as the three blades that make up the main rotor have been removed solely for storage space in side the hangar

Pembroke Pines, Florida 8th February 2010: In their relentless effort to provide the utmost technical information toward the group research concerning all related items that effected the Eastern Airline Flight 401 crash and post crash rescue, support members Benny Benitez and Catherine Smallwood visited and surveyed the only Sikorsky HH-52A in the whole of South Florida. Thanks to Broward Community College, Associate Dean of Aviation Maintenance, Mr. Donnie R. Blalack, Benny and Catherine were given access to carefully examine aircraft 1416.

Despite 1416 not being one of the five HH-52A's that were stationed at Coast Guard Air Station Opa Locka on the night of 29th December 1972, aircraft 1416 is an example of the first HH-52A that was piloted by Lt. Mike McCormack USCG who discovered the wreckage of Eastern Airlines Flight 401. The Sikorsky HH-52A helicopter model played the main role in airlifting both the rescuers to the site and ferrying out the survivors.

The support team plans to bring out the group survivors out to Broward Community College so as to see aircraft 1416, as the last time that Ron, Beverly, Mercy and Patty saw and were around an HH-52A was 38 years ago.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Finds A Supporter In Germany Mr. Pete Trapkowski "Mr. L-1011 Parts"

2010-02-02T16:29:00.001-08:00

A close observation of Pete's collection on the storage rack behind him show a wonderful array of L-1011 indicator dials, control head panels and what appears items still withing their boxes. Truly and amazing collection of L-1011 parts

What L-1011 enthusiast in the world today would not be as happy as Pete with all these L-1011 parts in his possession! With his hands full the smile on Peter face says it all. What an amazing collection and dedication to the L-1011

Shown in this picture is Pete holding the section of flight engineers panel that was originally installed on board Eastern Airlines Flight 401, aircraft N310EA, serial number 1011. Peter super generosity will allow the Eastern Airlines Flight Tribute Group to have a piece of their aircraft cockpit,as Peter as kindly offered to donated the panel to the group. Plans are being made for a European airline, preferably Lufthansa to fly the part back to Miami so as to be delivered to the survivors who shall greet the flight upon its arrival into Miami

Wermelskirchen, Germany 2nd February 2010: The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group continuous its international growth and exposure. The 401 group has established yet another presence in Europe. Aside from the group having a presence within the U.K. via Mr. Nick Bavington, the group liaison and contact in the U.K. and into the Royal Air Force 216th L-1011 Tanker Squadron, as well as Rolls Royce, the 401 group has now landed in "Continental Europe" with Mr. Peter "Pete" Trapkowski in Wermelskirchen, Germany.

Pete is an huge enthusiast and admirer of the great Lockheed L-1011. As seen from the above photos. Pete has an amble collection of L-1011 part and we at the 401 group learned that he only photograph about 25% of his collection / inventory of L-1011 parts.

The 401 group is delighted in Pete generous and heart felt offer to donate a section off the flight engineer panel from "N310EA". Pete is a welcome addition to the group and now with two of the group folks in Europe the 401 is truly becoming an international organization.

The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Group thanks and welcomes "Pete" to the crew!

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group U.K. Representative Mr. Nick Bavington Travled to London and Visited a British Airways L-1011 Simulator

2010-01-25T10:33:00.000-08:00

The offical Lockheed logo for the Tri-Star L-1011 aircraft
Shown in all its detail is the Flight Engineers Panel of an L-1011 cockpit. This was the crew station in which Flight Engineer Don Repo manned and operated on the night of the crash
A clear detailed view of the First Officer control column and instrumentation. On the left side you could see the landing gear control panel with the gear lever and indicator lights

A total front view of the British Airways L-1011 "G-BBGQ" simulator which shows the center pedestal, throttle controls and both control columns, which were the subject for N310EA autopilot "Altitude Hold" being knock out when the pilot column was bumped by Captain Loft

London, England 2nd January 2010: Have taken an hour drive on the motorway from his home, Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group U.K. Representative, Mr. Nick Bavington traveled to London to visit the Royal Air Force Museum. Nick is an instrumental and valued asset and member to the group, as he has helped forge links and communication with another Lockheed L-1011 group within the United Kingdom, as we refer to the Royal Air Force 216th Squadron who operate the L-1011 in an in-flight fuel tanker role.

The above pictures were provided by Nick when he visited the RAF Museum and had a chance to view the former British Airways L-1011 flight simulator.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Is Advised of Their Aircraft N310EA Flight Engineers "Engine Bleed" Contorl Panel Located In Germany

2010-01-25T08:48:00.000-08:00

Shown is an exect close up of the identification of the flight engineers panel which shows N310EA serial number clearly shown is "1011" with an Oct 30th 1972 Lockheed inspection sticker

Shown is a complete L-1011 Flight Engineers Control Panel from a British Airways L-1011 Simulator from aircraft "G-BBGQ". The yellow arrow shows the proper location inwhich the "Engine Bleed Control" off N310EA would be located within the overall Flight Engineers Panel layout
Shown is an identification tag on the back of the Engine Bleed control panel with the serial number from aircraft N310EA "aircraft serial number 1011". Also present is a yellowish-orange circular sticker which shows an inspection date of 30th October 1972, two month before the ill fated flight of 401 on 29th December 1972

"CLICK ON PHOTO FOR ENLARGED VIEWING"

An aviation treasure to the folks at the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group. Shown is the Flight Engineers "Engine Bleed Control Panel" that was original to N310EA, salvage from the crash and found its way onto N318EA, which in 1996 was scrapped in Northern Germany and saved by Mr. Peter Trapkowski

Miami, Florida 25th January 2010: We at the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute wish to thank Mr. Peter Trapkowski from Germany for sending these wonderful photographs and to learn that a piece of N310EA cockpit has survived after all these years. The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Trapkowski at the recent Miami Airliner Collectibles Show, which was held on Saturday 16th January 2010.

That is where the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group learned of Peter extraordinary piece of history from their aircraft.

Peter advised that the above panel which was salvaged from N310EA was installed and placed onto aircraft N318EA for Eastern Airlines fleet use. Peter as an avid admirer of the Lockheed L-1011 was able to save this amazing piece of history off aircraft N318EA when the aircraft in 1996 was parted out in Northern Germany.

Royal Marine Insurance Group of Miami, Florida Assist The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group To Reach Out Onto The African Continent

2010-01-19T08:30:00.000-08:00

Shown is Catherine Smallwood support member and aviation artist for the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group with Mr. Jose Bello of Royal Marine Insurance Group a major aviation and marine insurance provider in South Florida
Mr. Jose Bello is shown holding a digital rendering of aircraft N310EA which contains the signatures of the surviving members that make up the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group and of which is being hand delivered by Mr. Bello to Mr. Mamadou Jaye, who was a former Eastern Airlines flight crew member and the Chief Executive Officer of Ceiba Intercontinental S.A., an ATR-72 operator based in Equatorial Guinea in Africa

Doral, Florida 18th January 2010: In a first ever for the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute, their presence is being personally hand carrier onto the African Continent, particularly into the African nation of Equatorial Guinea. This amazing feat and the assistance to accomplish it is being done by our friends at Royal Marine Insurance Group (RMIG) of Miami, Florida. Headed up by Mrs. Kareen Miller, herself a former Eastern Airline employee, RIMG is a power house aviation and marine insurance company which commands a large market share within South Florida and holds a Global footprint within the industry.

Mr. Jose Bello the Aviation Insurance expert at (RMIG) also a former Eastern Airlines employee is scheduled to travel to Equatorial Guinea on business. He is scheduled to meet with Mr. Mamadou Jaye the Chief Executive Officer of Cebia Intercontinental, S.A., the national airline of Equatorial Guinea. Mr. Jaye, also happens to be a former Eastern Airlines flight crew member and we at the Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group understands that Mr. Jaye still holds a special place within his heart for Eastern Airlines. Through the gracious efforts of (RMIG) and Jose Bello, the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group, hopes to reach out to Mr. Jaye and Cebia Intercontinental, S.A. an ATR-72 operator for possible support and sponsorship.

The one of a kind survivor signed art print in which Mr. Jaye at Ceiba Intercontinental shall receive will place Mr. Jaye within the ranks with other top aviation professionals who have been honored by the group for their help through the rendering of N310EA, one such recipient is Captain Al Haynes from United Airlines Flight 232 Sioux City, Iowa 1989 crash, the ultimate in Crew Resource Management. This marks the continued global growth of awareness toward the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group. We looked forward to Jose report and photographs from Equatorial Guinea when he meets with Ceiba Intercontinental, S.A.

Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group Attends and Speaks at The 2010 Miami Airliner Collectible Show and Conference

2010-01-16T16:03:00.000-08:00

Visitors to the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group are grabbed and riveted by the story being told. Shown is a well known and respected world aviation consultant, former Cathay Pacific B747-400 / B777 line pilot and Chairman of InterFlight Consultant Group (IFG) (center) Mr. Oscar Gracia. Oscar is accompany by his Son and Wife who runs and operate a successful Miami based aviation art gallery

Surviving Flight Attendant Beverly Raposa shares her story with the new generation of aviation enthusiast and very well a future airline / aviation professional. The Eastern Airline Flight 401 story is one that has not age boundary for their audience of interest, both young and old

Catherine Smallwood engages in conversation with Mr. Robert Christensen of AIRLINERS Magazine who like the Eastern Flight 401 is also Miami based. AIRLINERS Magazine interest in the history of the crash of Eastern 401 could possibility lead to a series of informative articles within the industry established publication
Support group member Catherine Smallwood speaks with Kevin Doran and briefs Kevin the December 29th 2009 "NBC Today Show" news airing of the Flight 401 Story.

Miami, Florida 16th January 2010: Despite the cold snap that besieged Miami since the start of the New Year, finally warmer weather prevailed and made for a great day for enthusiast, historians and fans of commercial aviation, airliners and aircraft's to come out and enjoy the 2010 Miami Airliner Collectibles Show and Conference presented and organized by Air72.

This event adds to the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group second speaking /presentation engagement so far this year. To date, this event marks a milestone in the group effort, as it marks the group fifth public event in reaching out to the aviation community, so as to be known for the effort that is being put forth, so as to establish a memorial to the lost of Eastern Flight 401.

The group as always made a profound presence and impact to those who met with them at their presentation table, as well as to the rows of the seated audience at their main presentation later that night. As always, the attending public, both young and old, seasoned aviation profession or enthusiast are captured by the story of Flight 401.

As the story is told by the surviving members of the Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group and the myths and stories that have wrapped this event in commercial aviation are dismissed and the facts are brought forth, the public is both amazed and touched by the power that is the human spirit. The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group would like to extend a special thanks and recognition to Mr and Mrs Chuck Padolsky of Naples, Florida for the generous contribution.

Benefits From Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Crash Resonates Through Out The Industry 37 Years Later As Evident With American Airlines Flight 331 Crash

2010-01-10T17:47:00.000-08:00

The remaining hulk of what was once aircraft N977AN s/n 29550, as it rest inside a hangar in Jamaica awaiting final scrap disposition by Underwriters The difference of a mere few more yard who have resulted in the aircraft going into the surf and possibility resulting in death, as then passenger would have had to deal with the crash, darkness and water entry
The forward section of aircraft N977AN rest on a transport lorry, the plane classified a total lost by Aviation Insurance Underwriters

Notice the cured poor measure in which Kingston airport had employed from keeping an aircraft from skidding into the surf at the end of the runway, as evident by the yellow barriers, similar to the D-Day beach obstacle planned by Rommel. The above barrier would result in slicing up a passing fuselage.

Miami, Florida 11th January 2010: 6 days to the date of the 37 anniversary of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 crash into the dark Everglades on 29th December 1972, passenger onboard American Airlines Flight 331 from Miami, Florida to Kingston, Jamaica crashed on a rain soaked runway during the night of 23rd December 2009.

As evident from the above photographs the aircraft a Boeing 737-800, bearing U.S. Registration N977AN, with manufacture serial number 29550, delivered to American Airlines 8 years ago broke up upon crash landing with 140 souls onboard.

But unlike Eastern Airlines Flight 401 the American Airline Cabin crew had one attribute that aided in all souls getting out alive! American 331 flight attendants had cabin flashlights to aid in guiding and seeking the passengers a luxury not afforded to Eastern Airline Flight 401 cabin crew members like Beverly Raposa, Mercy Ruiz and Patty McQuigg on that fateful night.

Aside from establishing Crew Resource Management "CRM" within the industry, the crash of Eastern Airlines 401 also gave and put forth cabin crew emergency flashlights into the passenger cabins.

So next time you fly on a commercial flight anywhere in the world and you glance over at the cabin crew seating stations and see the wall mounted flashlights thank all of those who died and those survived as your chances to survive an evacuation of a dark cabin was in part to Eastern Airlines Flight 401.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Presents Captain Richard Kenin USCG & Captain Al Haynes With N310EA Survivor Signed Prints

2010-01-08T16:17:00.000-08:00

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Ron Infantino makes a few remarks and comments as he speaks about the significant of the special art work rendered to both Captain Kenin and Captain Haynes

Shown with Coast Guard Air Station Miami, Florida Commanding Office, Captain Richard Kenin are Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Support Members Benny Benitez and Catherine Smallwood, who presented Captain Kenin with a survivor signed 16 X 20 digital print of Eastern L-1011, N310EA created by Catherine Smallwood and the Digital Aircraft Factory
Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Support Member Catherine Smallwood presents here creation of Eastern Airlines L-1011 N310EA to Captain Al Haynes in appreciation for the "Ultimate" application of CRM
The start CRM started with the crash of EAL L-1011, N310EA and the Ultimate in CRM with UAL Flt 232 DC-10, N1819U is the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group shown with Captain Al Haynes of United Airlines Flight 232 accompany by an official of the local Civil Air Patrol

Miami, Florida 5th January 2010: In appreciation for their consideration and time, the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group presented both Captain Richard Kenin, Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Air Station Miami and Captain Al Haynes of United Airlines Flight 232 with survivor signed prints of Flight 401 aircraft, Eastern L-1011, N310EA.

The art work was digitally created by the Digital Aircraft Factory a subsidiary of the Miami based 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consultant Group. Under the technical and creative leadership of Digital Aircraft Factory Chief Aviation Artist Catherine Smallwood, N310EA was created down to its last detail utilizing Hollywood grade special effect software commonly seen in today movies to create the impossible.

Both Captain Kenin and Captain Haynes were pleased with such a special gift that commemorated the event.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 The Start of CRM, United Airlines Flight 232 The Ultimate In CRM

2010-01-08T16:05:00.000-08:00

The survivors of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 shown from left to right: Ron Infantino (surviving passenger), Patty McQuigg, Mercy Ruiz and Beverly Raposa (surviving flight attendants) with Captain Al Haynes of United Airlines Flight 232

Eastern Airlines Flight 401, L-1011, N310EA crashed on 29th December 1972, the crash that established Crew Resourse Management (CRM) and established an industry standard
United Airlines Flight 232, DC-10, N1819U crashed on 19th July 1989, the ultimate application In Crew Resource Management (CRM) that resulted in 185 surviving the crash from a total passenger and crew compliment of 296 souls

Miami, Florida 5th January 2010: The ability of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute to have spoken about their experience to the air and ground crews at the 2010 Coast Guard Air Station Miami Safety Stand Up was owed to the consideration and kindness of Captain Richard Kenin Commanding Officer of U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Miami.

This opportunity gave the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group the chance to meet an aviation professional who benefited from the lost of Eastern 401. On 19th July 1989 while acting as pilot in command of United Airlines DC-10, N1819U as flight 232 Captain Al Haynes and his crew were able to have 111 passengers from 296 onboard when the stricken aircraft crashed into Sioux City Iowa after sustaining a catastrophic number uncontained engine failure.

As the motto invokes, Eastern Airlines Flight 401 The Heritage of CRM, Captain Al Haynes on 19th July 1989, while pilot in command of N1819U on Flight 232 became the ultimate in applying what was started by the lost of Eastern Flight 401, Crew Resource Management.

Ironically, these two aviation lost established what could be called the commencement of CRM in the lost of Eastern 401 and the ultimate in CRM with United 232.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Meets Captain Al Haynes United Airlines Flt 232 Sioux City Iowa 1989 DC-10 N1819U Crash

2010-01-08T16:02:00.000-08:00

Captain Al Haynes speaks with USCG Lieutenants Paul Lalicata and Aaron Ortenzio Both Lt. Lalicata and Ortenzio act as Coast Guard Airstation Miami Rotary and Fixed Wing Flight Safety Officers
Captain Al Haynes enjoys a laugh with EAL 401 Flight Attendants Beverly Raposa (center) and Mercy Ruiz, as they share the special bond of surviving the crash of a widebody commercial aircraft
United Airlines Flight 232 Captain Al Haynes greets EAL Flt 401 Flight Attendant Mercy Ruiz, as EAL Flt 401 surviving passenger looks on
The Start of CRM and the ultimate in CRM, as Captain Al Haynes from UAL Flt 232 warmly greets Ron Infantino, surviving passenger from EAL Flt 401, as Captain Richard Kenin, Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Air Station Miami looks on and who was responsible for bringing these two men together

Miami, Florida 5th January 2010: In a twist of event in the scheduling of attending speakers at the Coast Guard Air Station Miami annual "Safety Stand-Up" The member of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group "The Heritage of CRM" had the honor to meet Captain Al Haynes, the pilot in command of the 1989 United Airlines Flight 232, DC-10, N1819U, Souix City Iowa crash.

In what to date is consider the "Ultimate in CRM" Eastern 401 Tribute Group members all had the pleasure and opportunity to meet Captain Al Haynes. In sharing their experience on is amazed as to the difference between both crashes. Basically, the whole knew that United Flt 232 was in trouble and that the outcome into Souix City was highly probable of a crash. The forewarning had an army of rescuers awaiting the aircraft pretty much like a baseball catcher awaiting for his pitcher to throw the ball right into his glove. Also back on the aircraft Captain Al Haynes has the advantage of CRM long learned and taught since it inception back in 1973 after the NASA post EAL Flt 401 crash report.

Turn the clock back seventeen (17) years and Eastern Flight had no one positive thing going for them as with United 232. No day light!, No awaiting rescuers, No on board cabin flashlights, No alerted crews to CRM and the list goes on and on and yet with us today are our friend and colleague who make up the group and advocate the important of CRM.

The above picture captures the moment with Ron Infantino, survivor of EAL Flt 401 greeting for the first time Captain Al Haynes of UAL Flt 232, CRM come full circle.

A worth note to be made as special thanks goes out to Captain Richard Kenin, Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Air Station Miami who made this event in aviation possible! Bravo Zulu!

Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group Lectures to Aircrews at Coast Guard Air Station Miami

2010-01-08T15:59:00.001-08:00

A grateful audience gives a standing ovation to the member of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute as they concluded their one hour presentation on their experience on that faithful night on 29th December 1972 and what their lost gave to the gain of the aviation community and the flying public

The audience at the U.S. Coast Guard 2010 Safety Stand Up consisted of Coast Guard, Local, State and Federal Aviation Law Enforcement aircrews

Eastern Airlines Support Member Benny Benitez speaks to the audience and informs them of the technical attribute of the L-1011 / N310EA

Captain Richard Kenin, Coast Guard Air Station Miami Commanding Office speaks with Ron Infantino, surviving passenger Eastern Airlines Flight 401 prior to speaking to an audience of over 200 U.S. Coast Guard and Law Enforcement aircrew at the Station Safety Stand Up event
U.S. Coast Guard Aviator Lt. Donvan Burns speaks with Mercy Ruiz about here experience during the post crash of Flight 401

Back in 1972, Coast Guard Air Station Miami main Rotary platform was the Sikorsky HH-52 "Sea Guard" now should the call ever again come to rescue passenger from a stricken crashed commercial aircraft within the Everglades, the Station is equipped with the state of art EADS Dauphin HH-65 Rescue Helicopter
Aside of the Air Station Rotary wing capability, Coast Guard Air Station Miami is equipped with the Dassualt HH-25U Falcon Jet. The HU-25 are numbered as they will soon be replaced by the Casa 235 twin engine Turbo Prop aircraft to be called by the Coast Guard as the HC-114

Miami, Florida 5th January 2010: In what is being consider the culmination of a solid year of working and building the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group, the had a proud high light in being invited by Captain Kenin, the Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Air Station Miami to lecture of their post crash experience to his aircrews and visiting Federal, State and Local law enforcement aircrews.

This marked the 4th public presentation that Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group has done to share and inform the public about the industry changing crash of 29th December 1972 since their focused efforts started a year ago to the date.

Aside from Captain Kenin, the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group would wish to thank the following U.S. Coast Guard Flight Safety Office at Coast Guard Air Stattion Miami who made the event possible in working with them to hone the presentation to the most added value to their crews. We at the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group extended our thanks and a "Bravo Zulu" to LCDR Daniel Duetermann, Lt. Paul Lalicata and Lt. Aron Ortenzio whose efforts and coordination made the event possible.

Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group with More TV Appearances

2010-01-04T06:49:00.001-08:00

Airing about two weeks before our 37th Anniversary, northern Florida was treated to a three part series by Cristina Xuarez, finishing her final year at University of Florida in Gainesville. As one of her final stories before graduation with honors, she came to Florida and spent time with us and even traveled to the site of the accident with us by airboat to get footage for her stories.

The stories originally aired the week ending December 19 and are now available as part of the online archive of WUFT News. Cristina is an outstanding reporter and did a great job putting together these news packages about the group and our goals and we appreciate the time and effort she put into them to help get our story out.

Click Here to watch the three part series on Eastern Flight 401 by Cristina Xuarez!

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Memorial

2010-01-02T09:36:00.000-08:00

The recent news buzz about the group has created a lot of interest in having some images of how the 401 Tribute will look once completed. To this end we are posting some renderings of the 401 Tribute that is proposed to be constructed in the Everglades and will be available to visit by airboat and visible from aircraft overflying the site.The design of the structure is by Brockhouse Associates PA here in Miami Florida, with the renderings by Digital Aircraft Factory, also headquartered here in Miami, FL.

The three renderings show how the basic design would appear and changes that we come up with can be added in the future. We are currently working on a re-design of the smaller mini-museum and images will be shown as soon as they are available. Additional views of the Everglades site will also be available as they are completed.

We would like to personally thank all of our donors for their help and support to make this possible and we request any help we can get in making these Tributes come to life.

Thank you all!

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Makes National News

2009-12-30T06:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was exciting for the Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group. With a huge thank you to Luisa Yanez of the Miami Herald, the word about our gathering to mark the 37th Anniversary of the crash yesterday went from a simple plan to get together and share with locals and to spend time together finishing the day with a nice dinner with our family and friends turned into a wonderful surprise as suddenly we found ourselves in the spotlight with both national attention from the NBC Today Show to many local news outlets including stories in the Miami Herald, Sun-Sentinel and on several TV stations including the local Fox Station WSVN and the NBC affiliate here, NBC Miami. Below are links to the stories and videos of our day yesterday.

TV/Videos
Today Show: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891#34629551
NBC Miami: http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local-beat/Plane-Crash-Survivors-Reunite-80288617.html
WSVN Fox: http://www.wsvn.com/news/articles/local/MI139861/

Newspaper Articles
Miami Herald: http://pd.miami.com/sp?aff=1100&keywords=flight+401&submit.x=0&submit.y=0
Sun Sentinel: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/sfl-flight-401-anniversary-122909,0,533536.story

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group on NBC's Today Show

2009-12-29T14:38:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a day today has been! A call came into our group this morning at PI Bagels in Ft Lauderdale from NBC News, they wanted to know if they could send a group up to meet and interview us for the Today Show! It came as a wonderful surprise to us and we had a wonderful time speaking with them this morning.

So, all of you who would like to see us on TV, we will be on the Today Show on Tuesday, Dec 30, 2009 sometime between 7AM and 9AM. We hope you'll all tune in and watch! Thanks to all of you who have come out today so far to see us and we look forward to seeing more of you this evening at the 94th AeroSquadron here in Miami as we continue remembering that fateful day, 37 years ago.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Gathers for the 37th Anniversary for the Crash

2009-12-29T07:46:00.000-08:00

Today, December 29th, 2009 is the 37th Anniversary of the crash of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 into the Florida Everglades. After reuniting in 2007 at the 35th Anniversary at the crash site, the a group of the survivors have been working together to put together the Tribute that never was. Today is also our 2nd Anniversary of being back together and working toward this goal.

To celebrate our being reunited in this common goal and in rememberance of the lives that were lost or forever changed on that cold and dark December night, we are spending today together to speak about our experiences and show pictures and newspaper articles about that ill-fated night.
This morning we are at PI Bagels on Pine Island in Fort Lauderdale, owned by a former Eastern employee and just filled with old Eastern memorabilia. We are here from 8AM until 1PM.
Tonight we are gathering in Miami at the 94th AeroSquadron restaurant on the south side of Miami International Airport at 8PM for dinner and invite the public to come by and speak with us and let us tell you about how the crash of Flight 401 has made air travel safer.

We are working to putting together a Tribute to the crash and to that end we are selling merchandise including prints, hats and bags and as always, any other donations are most gladly accepted. Please come and let us share our experiences with you as we remember on this anniversary, 37 years later.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Sole Mode Of Transportation Within The Everglades "AIRBOATS"

2009-09-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

Traveling the 9.2 mile distance from the Tamiami Trail launch site is "Airboat One" piloted by Doyle Kennon from Cooper Town which onboard were the survivors Ron Infantino, Beverly Raposa and Patty McGigg. Also onboard was the group photographer Catherine Smallwood who successfully recorded the day

Traveling on the left flank and riding passenger is Bruce Brockhouse with Tom a member from the Airboat Association of Florida who also lent his time and boat to assist the group in getting everyone out there

A great level thanks goes out to Doyle Kennon and the whole of Cooper Town for the use of their "Boat" which carried the Tribute group survivors back to the site

Shown is the launch site off Tamiami Trail were all the "Boats" were launched from. Should be noted that the size of the launch site only allow the launching of one boat at a time
Located on the South side of Tamiami Trail, the day started out on the grounds of the Airboat Association of Florida club and camp grounds as the "Boats" were hauled to the launch site which is situated on the North side of the Trail thus allowing a clear running to the crash site

The "Boats" ranged in sizes, horsepower and paint scheme, but all indispensable to getting the group out to the site and the sole mode of transportation within the Everglades

Miami, Florida 12th September 2009: Once again the survivors of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 found themselves preparing and heading back out to the very same spot that they were in on the night of 29th December 1972 crash of Flight 401, 37 years ago, as they the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group prepare to survey the area for the collection of historical information.

And the only and sole means of getting back to the site as was the case 37 years ago is by air boat! Thank to Jesse and Doyle kennon of Cooper City Air boats it was possible. Despite the advancement that Miami-Dade County has undergone since 1972, the world famous Florida Everglades are as unassailable as they were 37th years and for that matter since its discovery over 500 years ago.

Cooper City Air Boats Tours were a key factor in making this possible and we at the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group wish to thank both Mr. Jesse Kennon and his Son Mr. Doyle Kennon.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Prepares For The First Of Many Crash Site Survey of Flight 401

2009-09-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

Shown left to right: kneeling, Benny Benitez, Ron Infantino, Al Naranjo, Catherine Smallwood and Beverly Raposa. This event marks the group first formal and organized crash site survey since the group formally assembled at the start of the year and of which many more shall follow as the group goes forth
Shown at the launch site is the group photographer Catherine Smallwood properly equipped to provide photographic survey of the site and to overall record the day for the group history

Not to waste one minute so as to seize every second at the site, group leader Ron Infantino begins to unload the provisions to take along for the trip, which mostly consisted of water and soda to combat the heat while out on the site

Al Naranjo and Bruce Brockhouse are ready and eager to head out. The trip is very useful to them both, as they will be able to get an idea of the general area as they continue their plans to hopefully establish a memorial at the site

Having been and operated in some the most remote parts of the world while undertaking the survey of aircraft accidents and crashes will in the service of Lloyd's of London and despite being in a "friendly" environment with the support of over eight air boats, direct contact via communication to the Opa Locka U.S. Coast Guard Air Station, Benny still conducts a proper and detailed equipment check for the group before heading out

Miami, Florida 12th September 2009: In a combined effort by all hands of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group, the group makes ready for their first formal and organized expedition back out to the crash site of 37 years ago, so as to undertake a survey of the area.

One contributing attribute to the group is the experience in which group member Benny Benitez brings in the area of post crash area investigations and surveying.

As a post crash surveyor and investigator in the service of the London Lloyd Syndicate of Aviation Underwriters when being employed for the world known aviation lost adjustment firm, the London based AIRCLAIMS Benny Benitez undertook the survey of over a dozen crashes in the most inhospitable places within Latin America.

Drawing on his experience in planning, safety and executing success sit surveyors, the group benefited from this as they undertook the survey of their crash site. The group hopes to lay the ground work for future public tours that the group would use as means of raising funds for their cause through site visitation and lectures at the site by the survivors.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Survivor Meets One of His Rescuer from 37 Years Ago

2009-09-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

Shown (left) is surviving Eastern Airline Flight 401 passenger Ron Infantino with retired Miami-Dade Fire-Figther Don Onstad who 37 years ago helped Ron off the rescue helicopter at the hospital when Ron was airlifted out from the crash site
After 37 years Ron Infantino and Don Onstad again meet within the Everglades, but under much different and more hospitable conditions and enjoyed seeing each other after so many years
Ron Infantino (left) is shown listing to Keith Price, the President of the Airboat Association of Florida, as unknown to him yet standing next to him is an individual who Ron has not seen within 37 years and who was the Miami-Dade Fire-Fighter who took him off the rescue helicopter. Retired Miami-Dade Firefighter Don Onstad awaits for Keith to finish speak before re-introducing himself to Ron

Miami, Florida 12th September 2009: As it always appears to be with the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group each exploit and undertaking that the group plans and does results in a new and wonderful find. Such is the case when during the preparation of the first organized survey tour back to the crash site of 37 years ago and as the group gathered at the Air Boater Association of Florida grounds, the past met the present.

Much to the surprise of everyone, especially surviving passenger Mr. Ron Infantino, he meets one of the Miami-Dade Fire Rescuer, Mr. Don Onstad.

Unknown to any of us at the time this amazing reunion was a surprise to all and on those magical moments that often happen when around the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group. Both Ron and Don warmly greeted each other and without any words at first spoken, just a hardy handshake and warm smile between them, the sensation of thanks and gratitude was abundant among these two men who fate brought them together 37 years ago.

After 37 Years The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Locates and Indentify Wreckage From Aircraft N310EA

2009-09-12T19:14:00.001-07:00

Despite the seasonal high water level within the Everglades, this piece from aircraft N310EA is still visible and after 37 years still appears to be in overall good condition concerning surface corrosion
Al Naranjo feels to see if the subject part may be moved, but soon learns that what is seen is actually the tip of the iceberg as further observation showed that this piece is over 8 feet long and about 3 feet wide. Recovery of this piece will require the part to be strapped and / or chained and hauled / broken free by either the airboats or a truck to be driven out on the levy A close up survey photograph displays heavy presence of "sealant" on the structure indicating that is may be part of an area which held fuel such as the wing and / or center tank areas. Also noted and worthy of mention that despite 37 years of sitting out there in the elements the "sealant" still had a slight rubber feel to it. Also the heavy rivet area displayed very little visible surface corrosion

Drawing on his diverse world experience of aircraft accident investigations and crash site reclamation with the London Lloyd's Syndicate, honorary group member Benny Benitez is "boots on ground" along with Al Naranjo and Bruce Brockhouse at the first identified area which exhibited a sizable part of aircraft wreckage from Eastern Airlines Lockheed L-1011 aircraft N310EA

Miami, Florida 12th September 2009: After 37 years surviving member of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 find themselves back to the site of the crash of their L-1011, N310EA, but this time they are not alone.

After a 40 min transit by the flotilla of air boats that comprised the survey team and through the area guidance of the good folks at the Air Boat Association of Florida, the group soon found themselves back at the crash site. It was amazing to see that after almost 37 years later bit and pieces of N310EA still lay undisturbed in the silence and remoteness that is the Everglades.

One such and notable piece of N310EA is shown above. It measured about 12 ft in length and at the widest about 4 1/2 feet wide and appears from its structure to be wing skin / section.

No effort was made to remove it as this visitation to the site was merely a survey, but in the future this could prove to be a good artifact to preserve from N310EA.

The subject part at the time of our survey laid in about 8 inches of water. The segment shown in the above photo is the point of one end.

It should be noted that noticeable reminisce of "gray sealant" was visible leading our theory that this may have been a section of the wing that housed a fuel cell. Further review shall be pending and final determination of the local piece shall be established.

AirBoat Association of Florida (AAOF) & Cooper City Assist The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group With Their Survey of The Crash Site

2009-09-12T19:11:00.000-07:00

The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group crash site survey team shown left to right: Beverly Raposa, Benny Benitez, Al Naranjo, Bruce Brockhouse, Catherine Smallwood, Patty Mc Quigg, Ron Infantino and Keith Price of the Airboat Association of Florida. Of notable mention and not present due to a schedule conflict Mercy Ruiz (surviving flight attendant)

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Ron Infantino the group "Commander" speak with the President of the Airboat Association of South Florida Kieth Price about the site and the current condition of the area and its water level during this time of the year considering the seasonal heavy rains

Bruce Brockhouse and Al Naranjo from the Miami based Architectural firm of Brockhouse speak to Kieth Price about their idea to establish a memorial for Eastern Airlines Flight 401 out at the crash site

Eastern Airline Flight 401 surviving flight attendant Beverly Raposa shown here next Kieth Price, President of the AirBoat Association of Florida (AAOF). Keith is speaking to the group about the the current state of the water level out there before heading out for the scheduled survey

Miami, Florida 12th September 2009: The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group wishes to thank all the good and caring folks both at the Air Boat Association of Florida (AAOF) and the Cooper City, as their willingness to help is greatly appreciated. In speaking to Mr. Keith Price the President of the Air Boat Association of Florida he mentioned that his organization will support the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group in providing transportation from time to time back to the site for any research and collection of information that would help the group establish itself. The group fully appreciate the support of the local airboating community as it was an lone airboat manned by the late Mr. Robert "Bud" Marquis that came to the rescue of Flight 401 and 37 years later the airboats and its great folks still are forever rendering the assistance that started 37 years ago.

We at the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group wish to thank and hold in great esteem all the folks that make up the airboat community and culture that is so special to South Florida and those who are here today because of the rescue they offered 37 years ago.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Holds Their First International Group Meeting at The 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant of Miami

2009-08-22T15:19:00.000-07:00

A splendid view from within the dining area of the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant of a British Airways Boeing 747-400 upon its arrival onto runway "9 Right " at Miami International Airport
The inner setting within the Miami 94th Aero Squadron restaurant
The restaurant conveys a vintage and rural setting of a European county farm house. The interior walls are superbly decorates with artifact's and images of early military aviation, mostly World War I
The Miami 94th Aero Squadron restaurant locate adjacent to the Miami airport Southern perimeter road along side Runway "9 Right"
With the fine German precision, Lufthansa B747-400 arrives on schedule into Miami International Airport as observed from the inner dinning are of the restaurant. The table at 94th Aero Squadron restaurant are equipped with audio headsets that allows you to listen into Miami Air Traffic Control

Miami, Florida 22nd August 2009: On Saturday 22nd August 2009, the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group held their 15th consecutive 2009 group meeting as well as their first "International" meeting with the presence of their Support Representative Member (SRM) from the U.K. Mr. Nick Bavington at the famous Miami 94th Aero Squadron restaurant which is situated alone side the South side of Miami International Airport runway 9-Right.

There was no better place and / or venue than the "94th" as its affectionately become known through out the many years by their dedicate and loyal patrons.

The restaurant dinning area has huge side windows that clearly faces (MIA) runway 9-Right. The dining tables are equipped with audio headsets which allows audio monitoring of the local Air Traffic Control communication will you enjoy your meal and drinks. The service at the "94th" is one of super client service. The food at the "94th" is a mix of menu ordered items and / or buffet style at a great value with expectational portions served.

Being that The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group is a Miami grown group and embraces all that is "Miami" the group plans to have their future weekend meetings at the "94th" and utilize their dinning halls for future gatherings and events. So come out to the "94th" on any given Saturday and enjoy a delightful meal, enjoy the sights of commercial aircraft landing at Miami International Airport and have a chance to meet the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group members whose experience on the night of 29th December 1972 made air travel that much safer for all us today, 37 years later.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Group Honors Their U.K. Representative Mr. Nick Bavington With The First Ever N310EA Print Signed By The Survivors

2009-08-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

As a sign of the group appreciation, honorary group member Benny Benitez (right) presents Nick with an original digital rendering of N310EA produced by Catherine Smallwood, the Chief Aviation Artist for The Digital Aircraft Factory. The original art work was signed by three of the survivors from Eastern Airlines Flight 401, thus being Ron Infantino, surviving passenger and Beverly Raposa and Mercy Ruiz, surviving flight 401 attendants not present was flight attendant Patty McQuinn of notable mention Nick Bavington the recipient of the first ever produced digital rendering of N310EA signed by survivors of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 is shown with the creator of the masterful art work, Catherine Smallwood. The art work measures 16 x20 printed on a canvas panel
Accompany with Katie, Nick smiles as he poses with the group of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 survivors and his wonderful art print of which he stated that once he gets back home to the U.K., he shall frame this one of a kind print and proudly display it within his home office back in England
Joined by the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 survivors Ron Infantino, Beverly Rasposa and Mercy Ruiz and the artist of the print Catherine Smallwood. Nick proudly displays his much appreciated gift from the group
Nick is joined by the survivors from Eastern Airlines Flight 401 who all proudly signed their names to the art print thus making it a special one of kind historical commercial aviation collectible

Miami, Florida 22nd August 2009: In showing their appreciation, the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group presented their Support Representative Member (SRM) from the U.K., Mr. Nick Bavington with a special one of a kind gift. Straight from the production studios of the Digital Aircraft Factory (DAF) a subsidiary of the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consultant Group under the creative leadership of Catherine Smallwood, the Chief Aviation Artist for the (DAF) digitally brought back Eastern Airlines L-1011 N310EA.

The digital creation of N310EA will soon become the flagship of the group advertisement and being fully digital, thus created via the Hollywood grade special effect program called LIGHTWAVE, N310EA will be fully animated in flight and will soon visually grace the skies of Miami while flying.

The first official rendering was printed on a 16 x 20 canvas panel and signed by the survivors and given to Nick as a sincere sign of appreciation for his effort toward the cause. In the latter back of the 4th quarter of 2009, posters production of the L-1011 rendering with the signatures of the Eastern Flight 4o1 Tribute Group survivors shall be made available for sale to the public, so as to support the group memorial project.

Nick was delighted and honored to be considered for this one of kind gift. Nick stated that he will proudly display his special gift upon his return to the U.K.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Meets With Mr. Todd Nyman Board of Director Memeber for The Airboat Association of Florida

2009-08-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

Airboat Association of Florida Board of Director member, Mr. Todd Nyman (left) speaks about the current condition of the crash site out within the Everglades, as Al Naranjo from the Miami based Architectural Firm Brockhouse who will design the memorial for Eastern Airlines Flight 401. Al annotates the informative information shared by Todd for consideration as Brockhouse prepares preliminary plans for the memorial
Todd explains areas of possible interest as the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group plans an expedition back out to crash site to survey, locate and identify various known aircraft wreckage from their aircraft N310EA which is still out there according to Todd
Al (second from the left) explains about a possible design consideration based on Todd advisement that the South Florida Water Management District along with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers plan to do away with the dike which is located close to the site and of which on the night of 29th December 1972 was instrumental in facilitating rescue of the survivors by ground vehicles such as the police and fire department, as they drove out the site to render assistance
Surviving flight attendant Beverly Raposa explains to Todd her crew station position seating within the aircraft moment's before the crash as Mercy Ruiz looks on. This meeting marks the start of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 and the Airboat Association of Florida working together toward the goal of establishing the memorial and establishing possible tours to the site

Miami, Florida 22nd August 2009: As if one personal and professional pleasure was not enough during the first International meeting of the Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group, the group was graced with the presence of yet a other individual who brings a worth of assistance from himself and his organization. Mr. Todd Nyman a Board of Director member of the Airboat Association of Florida was present at the group first "International" meeting. Todd and his group are an invaluable asset to the group, as the folks who make up the Airboat Association of Florida are an important part of the history of Eastern Airlines Flight 401. As recalled it is was an airboat which was manned by the late Mr. Robert "Bud" Marquis, "The Angel of the Everglades" that came to the rescue of the survivors in the early moments of the post crash. Todd and his group has generously offered to facilitate airboat transportation for the group to go out and survey the crash site, as Todd has advised that there is still a great deal of wreckage still out there related to N310EA. The Airboat Association of Florida will be an important part of the group effort to establishing the memorial. Thanks to Todd and the Airboat Association of Florida, the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute group continues to expand.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group U.K. Representative Mr. Nick Bavington Visits Miami For The Group First International Meeting

2009-08-22T14:26:00.000-07:00

Surviving Flight 401 passenger and the group leader Ron "Commander" Infantino briefs Nick Bavington Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group United Kingdom representative about the crash during Nicks first visit to Miami

Nick Bavington pays detail attention as Todd Nyman from the Airboat Association of Florida shows Beverly Raposa and Mercy Ruiz, both surviving 401 flight attendants as to the location of currently known and identified Eastern Flight 401 post crash wreckage still out there within the Everglades
Ron Infantino, flights 401 surviving passenger, shows Nick and Katie the Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group informative brief folder, which contains a large and concentrated amount of post crash information, photographs and newspaper articles of the period Visiting Miami for the first time and attending the 15th continuous group meeting this year is Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group official representative from the United Kingdom, Mr. Nick Bavington and Katie. This meeting marks a high lite within the group, as its officially the first "International" meeting with Nicks and Katie presences. Nick is the Group first official and appointed representative

Miami, Florida 22nd August 2009: Despite the schedule daily rain fall of South Florida, the day turned out to be bright for the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group, as they hosted and met for the first time their Support Representative Member (SRM) Nick Bavington from the United Kingdom.

Nick and Katie visited Miami for the first time as they arrived from Orlando where they were on Holiday. Nick visits allowed the entire group to meet him for the first time since being appointed as the group actual first international (SRM).

Since coming on board with the group back in March 2009, Nick has been instrumental in linking up the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group with the sole military L-1011 operator, the Royal Air Force 216th Squadron based at RAF Station Brize Norton, home of the 216th.

Nick effort also resulted in liaising with Rolls Royce Engine Corporation, this is a key attribute as the famed Rolls Royce RB211-22B powered N310EA. Nick takes the cause across the pond so to speak and will hopefully lead the path for the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group to lecture within the European realm of aviation enthusiast, historians and airlines concerning Crew Recourse Management (CRM) and the experience of the survivors. The whole group was delighted to have met Nick and Katie and thank him for his dedication which is much appreciated! "Jolly Good"

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Hits The Radio Waves On The Chris Wolfe Show The "BIZ 880 AM"

2009-08-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

Ron Infantino (Surviving Passenger) of Eastern Flight 401 sits prepared to proceed with the radio talk show and answer the expected volley of questions from the listening public
Mercy Ruiz (Surviving Flight Attendant) of Eastern Flight 401 with Benny Benitez, Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group honorary group member and supporter with talk show host Wanda Miles
The Eastern Airlines Fight 401 Tribute Group with radio talk show host Chris Wolfe. Shown left to right are Mercy Ruiz (Surviving Flight Attendant), Chris Wolfe, Benny Benitez, Beverly Raposa (Surviving Flight Attendant) and Ron Infantino (Surviving Passenger)
Radio talk show host Chris Wolfe of the Chris Wolfe radio show "BIZ 880 AM" whose motto is "Meeting Miami's Most Interesting People"

Chris Wolfe speaks with Beverly Raposa about her experience of being part of a major airline crash and being there at night in the middle of the Everglades
Mercy Ruiz speaks about her experience concerning the crash, as many questions from the public arrived concerning as to her and Beverly courage in keeping the many surviving passenger out there on that fateful night as calm as possible, which included the singing of Christmas songs
Ron and Beverly team up to answer a callers question about being "out there" and as to how they each dealt with the situation and their feeling about the crash many years later

Coral Gables, Florida 5th August 2009: In keeping with their public roll-out momentum, which was achieved at and since the Airliners International 2009 event held in Orlando, Florida back on July 23-25th, members of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group took to the radio airwaves of Miami on WZAB 880AM.

Marking their 2nd visit onto the radio station since the inception of the group, radio talk show host Chris Wolfe of the Chris Wolfe "BIZ 880AM" extended a return invite for the group to speak as interest has greatly been generated within Miami since the recent article written by Miami Herald reporter Luisa Yanez, dated Monday 13th July, 2009 has once again sparked a renew interest within the public.

Present at the live broadcast from the studios at WZAB located in Coral Gables were surviving passenger Ron Infantino, who is affectionately known within the group as "The Commander" Beverly Raposa and Mercy Ruiz, both surviving flight attendants, flight 401 cabin crew and honorary member and renowned aviation consultant from the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consultant Group and post crash site surveyor, formerly in the service of Lloyd's of London, Benny F. Benitez.

Those not present that day at the studio as a result of scheduling, but worthy of honorable mentioned were Jan (Minguzzi) Coviello, surviving passenger and the 2nd and currently the only other honorary member Catherine Smallwood of the Digital Aircraft Factory.

As soon as Chris Wolfe opened the call in lines, the phone calls poured in as far West as San Diego, Califorina.

The calls of interest from the public ranged from the personal feeling of each of the survivors to specific technical questions about the aircraft and its flight crew. Not to be stymied by distance and not being able to be physically present, honorary member Catherine Smallwood called in from St. Augustine, Florida to elaborate in great detail about the aircraft pitch hold and autopilot for the benefit of the listing public.

The group was able to convey to the listening public the goal of establishing a memorial / tribute to those lives that were lost and those that were touched by the lost of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 on that dark night within the Everglades back on 29th December 1972, the night in which fail safe failed.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Wraps It Up At The Airliners International 2009 Last Night Gala Event

2009-07-26T19:03:00.001-07:00

Sown left to right at the Airliners International 2009 banquet are: Patty McQuigg (Surviving Flight Attendant) Eastern Airlines Flight 401 with Phil Brooks of United Airlines and his Wife Pam Brooks with Beverly Raposa (Surviving Flight Attendant) Eastern Airlines Flight 401
Shown with Beverly Raposa and Patty McQuigg both surviving Flight 401 Flight Attendants is aviation photographer Jerry Stanick ,who effort back in 1972 while photographing at Atlanta Hartfield International Airport, gave us two of the greatest shots ever so far of N310EA. Jerry is credited for the photo on our banner header of N310EA and the one displayed on the right hand side of our blog credited to him
Beverly Raposa speaks with Jon Proctor well known author of various commercial aviation books and former Editor-In-Chief for AIRLINERS Magazine. Jon was instrumental in the group having the pleasure of learning of Jerry Stanick and getting the group in touch with him concerning his photographs of N310EA
Shown with Patty McQuigg and Beverly Raposa, both surviving Eastern Airlines Flight 401 is Carlos Gomez, the quest speaker at the Airliners International 2009 Banquet Dinner. Carlos brief the entire audience on his group tremendous effort to fully restore to flight condition an ex-Eastern Airlines DC-7B
Flanked by Beverly Raposa and Patty McQuigg is Roger Jarman of Atlantic Models, the industry known manufacture of quality aircraft models from Miami, Florida and accompanying quest speaker with Carlos Gomez at the Airliners International 2009 Banquet Dinner The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group with Mr. Danilo A.Vrolijk Sr. Air Traffic Controller of the Department of Aviation Aruba

Orlando, Florida 25th July 2009: After two full days of tremendous appreciation and great interest shown from the attending crowds toward the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group who were present at this years Airliners International, which was held in Orlando, Florida, the members of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute group took in an enjoyable banquet dinner during the last night of the event.

In an odd twist of events, the survivors luck held strong at the banquet / dinner, as not only them but all others present who sat at their table that night all scored with winning raffle tickets for a host of great give aways ranging from aviation and aircraft's DVD's, books and die cast models.

It was truly a time for the 401 group to savor the night and enjoy the appreciation shown and rendered onto them, as all of them have given their all for many weekends this years to take their story, their memories and their message to all of us to understand, reflect and appreciate.

Add to that with being in the company with many great industry friends and colleagues it was truly a memorable night for all to remember.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group & The National Museum Of Commercial Aviation Link Up At Airliners International 2009

2009-07-26T18:58:00.001-07:00

Shown left to right: Ron Infantino (surviving passenger flight 401), Beverly Raposa (surviving flight attendant flight 401), Captain Chuck Maire, Chairman of the Board for the National Museum of Commercial Aviation in Atlanta, Georgia and Patty McQuigg (surviving flight attendant flight 401).

Assuming the "I am in Charge" Captain posed, Captain Chuck Marie is shown at the National Museum of Commercial Aviation table accompanied by Grant Wainscott, Executive Director

Orlando, Florida 23rd-25th 2009: Also in attendance at Airliners International 2009 were members from the National Museum of Commercial Aviation (NMCA). Captain Chuck Marie, Chairman of the board and Grant Wainscott, Executive Director met with the members of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group and discussed a few possibilities.

One issued discussed was for both organizations to support each other within their respective cities of which Atlanta was an Eastern base and Miami a treasure trove of commercial aviation.

The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute welcomed the idea of being a possible guess speaker at the (NMCA) scheduled event in September to celebrate the opening of their new and expanded facility in Atlanta to showcase their collection.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Conducts its First Industry Lecture at Airliners International 2009 in Orlando, Florida

2009-07-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

Surviving Flight Attendant Patty McQuigg speaks about her experience before and after the crash of Flight 401. Patty's descriptive approach in telling her story made the audience feel a sense of being there as she explained as to who she was entangled within the many wire bundles and hung there within the wreckage like a scare crow whistle being injured and awaiting for rescue
Shea Oakley approaches Beverly after the two hour lecture given about specific queries concerning the other cabin crew members and their conditions after the crash. Shown here is Shea giving Beverly a few names he jotted down to question about concerning the other cabin crew memebers
"Commander" Ron Infantino opens the lecture / presentation about Eastern Flight 401 at Airliners International 2009, with the statement of "the 1 to 10 scale factor" of life in as 10, being the worst an aircraft crash to 1 being the least in as breaking a finger nail and as to how in life we all should appreciate every single second and worry about the things that matters

Honorary group member Catherine Smallwood a qualified FAA Flight Instructor and ERJ-170 First Officer for Republic Airways speaks about the flight condition and attitude of aircraft (N310EA) during the final moments of flight and as to how the crew operated within the cockpit unknowing the situation at hand concerning the aircraft slow decent into the ground

Orlando, Florida 23rd-25th 2009: The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group launched their first formal and structured lecture covering the experience of the survivors, the technical aspects of the crash and the advent of Crew Resource Management (CRM) at Airliners International 2009. An audience of about 60 attendees enjoyed an informative and well presented two hour lecture. The audience participation was tremendous, as many within the audience clamored for answers to the many myths and stories in which they all have heard through out the thirty-eight years since the crash. One former Eastern Line Captain who spoke stated that he heard that the First Officer fell asleep and that was the result of the crash, which amazed the group and proved the point of the many misconception still out there concerning the crash.

The feedback from the audience was one of thanks and appreciation, as many within the audience were layman concerning the issues of Crew Resource Management (CRM) and the technical aspects of the L-1011 of which they commented as to how easy it was to understand the overall presentation. The group all took their turns to present their expertise and experience to the audience each bringing a different and informative view point to the audience.

Ron, Beverly and Patty all shared their personal experience from the crash which captivated the entire audience. The Group have been asked to speak at various other professional aviation gathering through the year of which their scheduled could be seen on the right hand / upper section of the blogsite with the upcoming dates.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Mix It Up At the Airliners International 2009 in Orlando, Florida

2009-07-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

Mike McComb an aviation writer for AIRWAYS Magazine review a series folders containing the historical technical data which was harvested from the Eastern archives and presented for public display. Many of these pages were meant for internal Eastern Airlines Company review only and never for public viewing
Even the much younger generation whose parents may have just been born at the time of the crash back in 1972, took amazement to the history of Flight 401. Kids ranging from grade school to high school all took a keen interest in meeting the group and learning about the crash

Surviving Flight Attendant Beverly Raposa explains to a young boy about the aircraft the Lockheed L-1011 in which she flew in as an Eastern Airlines Flight Attendant. The younger audiance express many inquizative question to all of the surviving memebers during the show

In a joint group effort this visitor get a great prospective about the crash from all three surviving member who were in attendance at the 2009 Airliners International. Visitors enjoyed the various views about the crashed expressed from both a passenger and flight cabin crew point of view

Beverly Raposa and Ron Infantino display a series of arranged post crash photo to on lookers who where all captivated by the information prepared and presented by the actual survivors, as well as the established and well research technical and operation data presented by the two honorary members Benny Benitez and Catherine Smallwood who also answered many questions during the three day event

Shown in the white ball cap is Shea Oakley, Executive Director of the Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum of New Jersey. Shea and Beverly discuss the myths and facts surrounding the crash, as they exchange names of former crew members

Orlando, Florida July 23rd-25th 2009:

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Attends the Airliners International 2009 in Orlando, Florida

2009-07-26T18:36:00.000-07:00

Honorary Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group Member Benny Benitez speaks with a former Eastern Airline First Officer who flew with Captain Loft, they discuss Crew Resource Management (CRM)

Honorary Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group member Catherine Smallwood speaks with a former Pan American Airways Flight Attendant. Catherine explains the piece of aircraft wreckage being displayed, as the visitor closely inspects the recovered panel cover
Surviving Eastern Flight 401 Flight Attendant explains here post crash experience and her location with one of many interested visitors to the display table who had many questions about surviving an aircraft crash
Surviving passenger Ron Infantino explains his seating position within the cabin of Flight 401 just prior to impact as a visitor closely listens in shear amazement to learn that the aircraft was totally destroyed

A passing visitor poses for a group photo showing from left to right Ron Infantino (Surviving Passenger), Patty McQuigg (Surviving Flight Attendant) Honorary Support Members Benny Benitez and Catherine Smallwood next to Beverly Raposa (Surviving Flight Attendant)

Orlando, Florida July 23rd-25th 2009:

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Visits The Rolls Royce Engine Manufacturing Facilities in The U.K.

2009-07-10T19:26:00.001-07:00

Our guy "Nick" Nick Bavington shown next to a Rolls Royce RB211 engine during his visit to Rolls Royce in Derby, England

Pending Story / Posting Soon to Published:

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Communicates With Various Die-Cast Molder Maker to Re-Create N310EA

2009-06-08T19:11:00.001-07:00

With a slight modification, the Gemini Jets 1/400 shown representing fleet aircraft N303EA could be easily changed to represent N310EA by changing the tail and nose numbers and removal of the forward fuselage circular logo shown

Shown above is a Gemini Jets 1/400 scale die-cast model of Eastern Airlines N303EA shown in the same Eastern Airlines fleet paint scheme in which Flight 401 aircraft N310EA was painted in on the night of the crash 29th December 1972

Miami, Florida 8th June 2009: Utilizing established business contacts within Hong Kong, Honorary Tribute Group member Benny F. Benitez contacted Hong Kong based Hobby-Master a manufacture of fine quality die-cast model aircraft / airliners. Hobby-Master advised that they would not be able to produce the Lockheed L-1011 / N310EA, as they lacked the proper "tooling" and it would prove to be an expensive acquisition to commit to. In their wiliness to help the group, Hobby-Master suggested to contact "Inflight 200" another quality producer of die cast model aircraft / airliners who are in possession of the required tooling. With the help of Mr. Wally Wilson from Washington D.C., Benny was provide with the name and email of Mr. Bob Cass at Inflight 200.

During the same time, Wally Wilson also provided Benny with the name of Mr. Elliot Epstein at Gemini Jets, the manufacture of the L-1011 in 1/400 scale shown above in the photograph. Benny launched a correspondence and was contacted by Gemini Jet who advised that unfortunately, their tooling for L-1011 production was damage, which caused them to produced only a limited run of Lockheed L-1011's. The hope would be for Inflight 200 to assist, which they expressed that normally, they do not produce "accident related" tail numbers, but would make special exception to support the group. Continued dialog shall continued and hopefully soon the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group will be able to sell commemorative "Inflight 200" 1/200 scale copies of N310EA.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Artifact, The Sole Surviving "Samsonite Suit Case"

2009-05-16T16:18:00.000-07:00

Eastern Flight 401 Surviving Flight Attendant Mercedes V. Ruiz still travels with her Eastern Airline Flight Attendant issued Samsonite suite case. Both survived the worlds first jumbo jet crash
A testament to the quality of a Samsonite suit cases, still after 37 years and surviving the world first jumbo jet crash Mercedes Eastern Airlines issued equipment is still functional
In a strange twist of fate, despite surviving the crash of Eastern Flight 401, the surviving suit case contained a roll of film that flight attendant Mercedes took the day before the crash which produced the ONLY photographic record of Flight 401 cabin crew

Miami, Florida 16th May 2009: On the night of 29th December 1972, tons of metal within the form of a Lockheed L-1011 aircraft came crashing down into the Florida Everglades. The impact, an explosion, post crash fire and being submerged in the waters of the Everglades, whistle being buried within the twisted, razor sharp and charred wreckage of what was formerly Eastern Airline aircraft N310EA, a piece of Eastern Airline cabin crew issued equipment survives today 37 year later. In a testimony toward the quality and workmanship of the Samsonite Luggage Company, the sole surviving suit case from Flight 401 is shown above.

Well worn, but fully functional, surviving Flight 401 flight attendant Mercedes V. Ruiz, proudly shows off her Samsonite, Eastern Airlines issued suit case. A reflection as to how times have changed, as cabin crews as well as flight crews back then, 37 years ago hauled their personal effects by hand! No sounds of squeaky wheel being generated by roll aways in towed were heard back in those days!

NOTE: The suit case shown above and other surviving artifacts from the worlds first jumbo crash shall be displayed by the survivors of Eastern Flight 401 at this years Airliners International Show in Orlando July 23-25, 2009.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Commences The Ground Work for a Video Documentary Production

2009-05-16T16:13:00.000-07:00

Surviving Eastern Flight 401 Flight Attendant Mercedes V. Ruiz points out to Journalist Christina Xuarez a picture on the screen taken of her and the cabin flight crew days before the crash of Flight 401

Honorary Committee member Catherine Smallwood briefs Journalist Christina Xuarez on the details of the Lockheed L-1011 and the points of the "chain of events" which resulted in the crash of Flight 401

Shown from left to right: Ron Infantino, surviving passenger, Beverly Rasposa, surviving Flight Attendant, Journalist Christina Xuarez and surviving Flight Attendant Mercedes V. Ruiz

Miami, Florida 16th May 2009: Having conducted their 11th production meeting, the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group had the pleasure of the presence of Journalist Christina Xuarez who has taken a keen interest in the "Story" of Flight 401. She will be closely working with the group to establish a documentary video. Christina and her TV producers are planning to have a TV production ready for airing toward the end of the year so as to coincide with the anniversary of the crash 29th December.

During the next few months Christina will be coordinating the arrival of photographer and video crews to arrive into Miami so as to visit the crash site, interview the survivors and commence to collect footage for production. This marks the Eastern Flight 401 Group first steps in going worldwide by the incorporation of media. Christina bring a level of energy and media expertise that would add yet another level of ability to the group.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Meets with United States Coast Guard Air Station Miami

2009-05-16T16:02:00.003-07:00

Shown from left to right: Ron Infantino surviving passenger flight 401, Captain Richard M. Kenin, Commanding Officer U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Miami, Beverly Rasposa surviving flight attendant flight 401 and Honorary Flight 401 Committee member, Benny F. Benitez
Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Honorary Committee members Benny F. Benitez and Catherine Smallwood explain in great detail to Captain Kenin certain technical issues that were contributing factors toward the crash of flight 401, which were discovered by their extensive research of Eastern Airlines historical technical records

Shown standing, surviving flight 401 flight attendant Beverly Rasposa explains to Captain Kenin here location within the post crash wreckage of N310EA via an illustration on the laptop, as Catherine Smallwood and Ron Infantino look on

Opa Locka, Florida 4th May 2009: In an effort to render both their appreciation and recognition toward their rescuers from 37 years ago, the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group had the honor and pleasure of meeting with Captain Richard M. Kenin, the Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Air Station Miami (C.G.A.S. Miami) so as to explain the efforts behind the group. What is commonly known today as "First Responders" a HH-52A "Sea Guard" helicopter and crew from (C.G.A.S. Miami) on the night of 29th December 1972 were the first to spot the crash site of flight 401 and render life saving assistance.

Both, surviving flight attendant Beverly Rasposa, passenger Ron Infantino and all of the other survivors were beneficiary of the dedication, professionalism and heroism that the crews from (C.G.A.S. Miami) displayed and executed on that night. Flying in pitch darkness, without an actual location to pin point the crash site as one would do today with GPS and /or night vision enhancement, the Coast Guard aircrews searched with shear determination.

Added to the fact that the topography of the Everglades in shear darkness with no horizon reference and a wet unstable surface was not conducive to the safe landing of the helicopters, but regardless of the condition on that night the "CAN DO" attitude of Naval Aviation prevailed!

Each within the group took their turns based on their expertise and / or experience so as to explain to Captain Kenin what actually happen. Captain Kenin an accomplished Naval Aviator and having a full understanding of Crew Resource Management (CRM) was impressed, so much that he has asked if the group would consider speaking and lecturing at the Air Station annual "Safety Stand Down" period in the latter part of the year. Military safe stand down is a set period in where a flying unit "stands down" from flying operational and / or training missions, so as to focus and review set and established safety and training procedures. Captain Kenin linked up his Command Flight Safety Training Officer, Lt. Dan Deutermann another accomplished Naval Aviator with the Eastern Flight 401 Group former Naval Aircrewman, Benny F. Benitez so as to coordinate a joint effort for the benefit of the HH-65 "Dolphin" helicopter and HU-25 "Falcon /Guardian" Jet aircrews training.

This would be an honor to the group and in a way to say Thank You! to the United States Coast Guard!

NOTE: The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group would like to extend a special thanks to Petty Officer YN2 Jennifer Pick, the Command Yeoman who assisted in coordinating the group visit with Captain Kenin.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Survivors Speak at a Eastern Airlines Gathering in Fort Lauderdale

2009-04-23T11:56:00.001-07:00

Shown from left to right: Patirica McGigg (Flight 401 Surviving Flight Attendant), Mercedes V. Ruiz (Flight 401 Surviving Flight Attendant), Beverly Raposa (Flight 401 Surviving Flight Attendant) and Ronald Infantino (Flight 401 Surviving Passenger)
Surviving Flight 401 Passenger Ron Infantino speaks to the Eastern Flight Attendant Reunion group about the efforts of the Tribute group and his experience as a survivor on that night 29th Deceber 1972
Surviving Flight 401 Flight Attendant Beverly Raposa shares her experience with the audience concerning those first dark, cold and wet post crash hours of Flight 401 until rescue arrived
Sharing her experience Surviving Flight 401 Flight Attendant Mercedes V. Ruiz speaks about the effort of the Tribute to remember those who perished and those who survived

Fort Laudersdale, Florida 11th April 2009: Casting off from Port Everglade in Fort Lauderdale, Florida onboard the Dinner Ship the "Musette" members of the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group were onboard as special quest speakers in attending the Eastern Airline Flight Attendant Reunion luncheon. Gathered were a host of former Eastern Airlines Flight Attendants, their families, friends and follow Eastern Airline colleagues.

The 401 Tribute took advantage of their "captive audience" while at sea to speak about their goals and accomplishment of the group, as they press forth to establish both an awareness of the crash and a proper tribute site, hopefully on the grounds within Miami International Airport.

The Group was welcomed and their experience were shared with all onboard. This marks the Group first public appearance as they look forward toward their second event which is scheduled for July 23rd to 25th 2009 at the "Airliners International" event in Orlando, Florida Wyndham Orlando Resort Hotel were they will hold a lecture to the airline enthusiast audience.

The Eastern Airline Flight Stewardess Creed by Alice Farley

2009-04-23T11:50:00.001-07:00

Click image to enlarge for proper viewing

The Digital Aircraft Factory a Subsidiary of the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consulting Group Creates an L-1011

2009-04-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

N310EA shown in green primer prior to paint
Side view of N310EA showing its fluid structural fuselage lines

Purely created from digital pixels and polygons

Miami, Florida 10th April 2009: In their never ending support toward the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group, the Digital Aircraft Factory a subsidiary of the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consulting Group of Miami, under the creative leadership of its Chief Aviation Artist, Ms. Catherine Smallwood is currently working toward rendering a full digital model of Eastern Airlines, L-1011 aircraft, N310EA.

Currently, the digital rendering of N310EA shown above is pending the application of its Eastern Airlines 1970's era fleet paint scheme.

Once completed, the digital rendering of N310EA being fully created from pixels and polygons and NOT a photo-shop creation, will be able to be fully animated for the sake of the creation of a digital video. All flight controls, landing gears and all actual movable details and surfaces of the aircraft could be fully manipulated and utilizing the NTSB report, DFDR written data inputs, and other post crash data harvested from the Eastern Airlines archives, the Digital Aircraft Factory shall create what could very well be the most up to date and accurate portrayal of the crash with the creation of a full motion digital video.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group U.K. Chapter Meets with The RAF 216th L-1011 Squadron at Brize Norton

2009-04-09T15:54:00.001-07:00

RAF 216th Squadron L-1011 ship nuber ZD951 on the ramp at RAF Brize Norton with Nick Bavington with Flight Leader Gaz Stevens standing below

Eastern Airlines Flight Tribute, U.K. Group Chapter Representative, Mr. Nick Bavington stands in front of RAF 216th Squadron hangar located on the grounds of RAF Base Brize Norton

The men and women of the RAF 216th Squadron were most generous in providing the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group with a full access tour of their facility and aircraft. Seen above left to right is Nick Bavington and 216th memeber Flight Leader Gaz Stevens

Nick Bavington sits left seat within the cockpit of 216th L-1011 (ZD951) proudly representing the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group

RAF Base Brize Norton, U.K. 9th April 2009: Today, the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group was truly an international operation thus achieving a milestone, as the group undertook two scheduled supporting meetings in two different parts of the World! The main group met in Miami with the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department, whistle across the "Pond" the Atlantic Ocean at a Royal Air Force base known as Brize Norton, the group United Kingdom Official Representative, Mr. Nick Bavington was hosted by the RAF 216th Squadron one of the last operator's of the venerable Lockheed L-1011 TriStar.

On behave of the Eastern Flight 401 Group, Nick Bavington shown above, liaised with elements of the RAF 216th and was able to have secured and audience with the Officers, Men and Women of the Squadron.

Originally planned and orchestrated by Honorary Tribute Committee member Benny F. Benitez, Nick's visit was established as a "Diplomatic Mission" on behave of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group. In the end Nick's endless supply of energy, wiliness and shear enthusiasm made it all come together.

As one of the last operators of the Lockheed L-1011, the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group wish to recognize the 216th, as the common bond between the two organizations is the aircraft. In a telephone debrief session with the group, Nick advised that RAF 216th L-1011 ship number ZD951 (shown above) has within its recorded historical maintenance life (i.e. Technical Records) being the recipient of various parts salvaged and harvested from Eastern Flight 401, N310EA!

Thirty-Seven (37) years later after the crash of Eastern Airlines Flight 401, the crews of the 216th operate and fully embrace Cockpit Resource Management (CRM) which came forth as result from the post crash investigation and conclusion of Eastern Flight 401. The Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group sends a special thank you to RAF Wing Commander / Officer in Charge Steve J. Chadwick and all of his Squadron Mates within the 216th for their time and effort to have hosted the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group, as well as a special thanks to Flight Leader Gaz Stevens for the escorted tour.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Meets with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Fire Chief Lorenzo

2009-04-09T14:35:00.000-07:00

Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group member / Survivor Ron Infantino displays to Chief Herminio Lorenzo and Division Chief Patricia Frosch news articles from the December 29th 1972 crash
Honorary Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group member Catherine Smallwood briefs Chief Lorenzo and Division Chief Frosch on the crash site and the overall tribute project ideas being planned and created
Ron Infantino explains to Chief Lorenzo and Division Chief Frosch the seating positions within the passenger cabin area were himself and the surviving flight attendants were located just before impact

Miami-Dade Rescue Fire Chief Herminio Lorenzo, Beverly Rasposa (EAL Flt 401 Flight Attendant), Ron Infantino (EAL Flt 401 Passenger) and Division Chief Patricia Frosch pictured at Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Headquarters in Doral

Doral, Florida 9th April 2009: The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Committee, consisting of Ron Infantino (Surviving Passenger), Beverly Raposa (Surviving Flight Attendant) and Honorary Committee members Benny F. Benitez and Catherine Smallwood had the pleasure of meeting Miami-Dade Rescue Fire Chief Herminio Lorenzo and his colleague, Division Chief / Employee & Community Affairs Division, Patricia A. Frosch at their Headquarters located within the Doral area of Miami.

The purpose of the meeting was to formally establish a link between the Tribute Group and the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department. The Tribute Group wishes to render the proper reorganization and appreciation toward the Department for the roll in which they played during the post crash rescue of the survivors. On that night Friday December 29th 1972, the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department was instrumental in the saving of lives soon after the crash site was located.

Dealing with an isolated crash site within the Everglades, miles away from the City with no established illumination and operating in the shear confusion that often follows a disaster, the established training and professionalism of the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department prevailed as they were able to quickly commence the task of rescuing the survivors.

Thirty-seven (37) years later the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department has learned from the experience of Eastern 401, the Arrow Air DC-8 crash in the early 90's and Value Jet and today they stand poised, ready, experienced and confident to act at a monuments notice to perform what 37 years might have appeared to have been a nightmare within the darkness of the Everglades.

Today, both the citizen of Miami-Dade County and the endless stream of the flying public which transverse the approach and departure paths of Miami International Airport could be assured that an experienced, well equipped, highly trained group of rescue professional under the guidance and leadership of Fire Chief Herminio Lorenzo stand a vigil ready to perform their duties, the job of saving lives. We at that the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group salute Fire Chief Lorenzo and his troops!

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Visits Miami Palmetto General Hospital And Views The Hospital Flt 401 Historical Photo Collection

2009-04-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

The 1st floor hall area at Miami Palmetto General Hospital displays a vintage collection of Flt 401 crash photographs as seen behind tribute members who from left to right are: Jan (Minguzzi) Coviello, Benny F. Benitez, Ron Infantino, Mercedes V. Ruiz, Beverly Raposa and Catherine Smallwood
Surviving Flt 401 Flight Attendants Beverly Raposa and Mercedes Ruiz explain to Benny Benitez the details of the crash site from the vintage black & white photograph displayed at Palmetto General Hospital

Accompanying the series of vintage black and white crash photographs from Eastern Flight 401 displayed at Palmetto General Hospital is a write up titled "Crash" commemorating the hospital involvement which was instrumental in the saving and caring of many lives on that fateful night 29th December 1972

(Courtesy of Palmetto General Hospital)

Among the collection of photographs displayed at Palmetto General Hospital commemorating the importance in which the hospital played that night is a never before seen photograph of a male survivor, sitting on a stool, draped in a blanket, being illuminated by a field Lateran holding what appears to be a cup of coffee while surrounded by rescuers. Note the Aircrew flight helmet poised on the truck of a car. This one photograph conveyed a strong and captivating sense of "I survived"

Hialeah, Florida 4th April 2009: Palmetto General Hospital was the vision of 26 physicians practicing in Hialeah who recognized the opportunity for a quality medical facility to meet the increasing health care needs of the growing population. Charged with the responsibility of turning that vision into reality, a nine-member steering committee set the course for what would become one of the area's leading hospitals.
Palmetto General Hospital opened its doors on January 17, 1971 with 50 beds, 70 doctors and 100 employees. Twenty-three months after opening its doors on December 29th 1972, Palmetto General Hospital found itself tending to the survivors of worlds largest aviation disaster to date concerning the crash of Eastern Airlines Flight 401.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 and the care of its survivors is an established part of the Palmetto General Hospital operational history, so much so that publicly displayed on the first floor hall way walls, after passing the reception area there is a series of never before seen large black and white, framed photographs of the crash site taken both during the rescue operation and what appears to be the morning after during the ongoing operation.

Today, the surviving members of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Committee paid a visit to Palmetto General Hospital to view what is also part of their history.

Today, the comprehensive health care facility, which serves more than 319,000 patients annually, has 360 beds, approximately 800 affiliated physicians and more than 1,500 employees standing ready to be called into action should another aviation disaster ever occur in South Florida.

Also today at the offices of surviving passenger Mr. Ron Infantino, both Catherine Smallwood and Benny F. Benitez were presented with the titles of "Honorary Committee Members" in appreciation for their time and dedication toward assisting the group and being a welcome driving force.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Meets With Miami Artist George Rodez To Kick Off Fund Raising Project

2009-03-28T15:07:00.000-07:00

Conducting the formal transfer of the L-1011 from the Eastern Airline Flight 401 Tribute Group to Artist George Rodez are from left to right: Benny F. Benitez CEO of the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consultant Group, Artist George Rodez and Catherine Smallwood, Chief Aviation Artist for the Digital Aircraft Factory

Miami Artist George Rodez with Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Survivors

Shown left to right are: Patricia McQigg (Flt 401 Flight Attendant) Mercedes V. Ruiz (Flt 401 Flight Attendant) Artist George Rodez, Ron Infantino (Flt 401 Passenger) and Beverly Raposa (Flt 401 Flight Attendant)

Flt 401 Flight Attendant Mercedes V. Ruiz explains to George Rodez about the attitude of the aircraft as she recalled just before impact

Using an Eastern Airlines L-1011 interior ad from the 1970's Flight Attendants Mercedes V. Ruiz and Patricia Mc Qigg show George Rodez their location within the cabin before the impact
Flt 401 Flight Attendant Beverly Raposa visually brief George Rodez about the crash showing post crash photos from the Miami Herald News Paper indicating to him her location within the wreckage in which she was rescued from

Miami, Florida 28th March 2009: Saturday March 28th marked the 8th consecutive weekend in which the members of the Eastern Flight 401 Tribute Group held their schedule weekend meetings at the offices of Ron Infantino. For eight straight weekends, the Flight 401 Tribute Group Committee got together as they forge ahead with their dedicated project to establish a tribute site / public display for those who died and survived the crash of Eastern Airlines Flight 401 back on 29th December 1972, which forever effected and changed the way in which commercial airline, corporate and military cockpit crews worldwide perform their duties and functions in an operational environment under Cockpit Resource Management (CRM).

The Flight 401 Group has formerly launched its first ever fund raising project by having local Miami Artist George Rodez utilize the 1/100 scale model of the L-1011 as shown above, which was generously donated by Atlantic-Models http://www.atlantic-models.com/ as his canvas to create a one of kind art piece for auction.

Scheduled to support an art expo in Barcelona, Spain next month, George advised that he will commence to work on the L-1011 within the next few days. During the meeting, George expressed many creative ways and ideas to approach this project and advised of enlisting the creative assistance of other local Miami artists to paint a fleet of 1/100 scale model of the L-1011's similar to the one shown above which will then be auction off.

One idea which was spawned from George creative thinking was to have Airlines sponsor the purchase of an unpainted 1/100 scale model of an L-1011 from Atlantic-Models so that the local artists could create their unique art work of which would then be donated for auction to the assist the Flight 401 Group obtain the funds needed to press forth with their vision of creating its tribute site / public display to those whose lives were touched by the lost of Eastern Flight 401 on 29th December 1972.

Atlantic Models Of Miami Florida Comes To The Aid The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group

2009-03-24T18:06:00.000-07:00

Mr. Roger Jarman of Atlantic-Models and Catherine Smallwood, Digital Aircraft Factory, Chief Aviation Artist and supporting committee member for the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group accepts a donated Lockheed L-1011 model for painting by Miami Artist George Rodez
A Lockheed L-1011-100 Resin model in 1/100 scale, which will be transformed into a one of kind art piece by famed Miami Artist George Rodez

Miami, Florida 24th March 2009: An avid supporter of "Miami Aviation" industry known and recognized Atlantic Models comes to the aid of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group with their generous donation of 1/100 scale model of a Lockheed L-1011 aircraft. Through the talent and effort of famed Miami Artist George Rodez, the donated "unpainted" L-1011 model provided by Atlantic-Models shall become a one of kind special art piece for a fund raising auction.

The proceeds generated from the future auction will go to support the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group. Announcement of the auction shall be posted as soon as the gray L-1011 shown above is transformed into a brilliant and vivid art piece worthy of sitting in a special collection.

The Group is thankful to both Mr. Roger Jarman of Atlantic-Models and Mr. George Rodez, who's shall apply his creative talent to create in what will become a brilliant combination of "Aviation and Art".

Local Miami Artist Comes To The Assistance Of The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group

2009-03-20T19:13:00.000-07:00

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 survivor Mr. Ron Infantino and Miami based, world renowned artist Mr. George Rodez

Miami Lakes, Florida 19th March 2009: In a meeting arranged and coordinated through Mr. Benny F. Benitez of the the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consulting Group a strong and established supporter of the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group allowed group survivor Mr. Ron Infantino to meet and speak to world renowned, Miami artist Mr. George Rodez. http://www.rodezart.com/

In a first ever expansion into "Aviation, Mr. Rodez has agreed to assist the 401 Group by applying his brilliant and vivid style of art work onto cast resin mold, base mounted model of an L-1011 which is being donated by Mr. Roger Jarman of Atlantic Models http://www.atlantic-models.com/ This "One of a Kind" art piece produced by Mr. Rodez shall be auctioned off at a scheduled event to be established later this year with the proceed of the auction going to support the Flight 401 Group. The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group appreciates the assistance and dedication in which Mr. Rodez has expressed toward rendering his artistic talent to help with the group fund raising.

Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group Establishes a U.K. Chapter

2009-03-17T20:31:00.000-07:00

Rugby Warwickshire, England 19th March 2009: The Miami, Florida based Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group through the assistance and coordination by and between Benny Benitez and Beverly Rasposa has resulted in the establishment of the first International Chapter in United Kingdom. Mr. Nick Bavington has been appointed to head up the Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group-U.K.

Mr. Bavington has displayed and expressed a great deal of enthusiasm and willingness to help in expanding the presence of the group. With a large enthusiastic aviation / plane spotter community in the U.K., its a great realm to expand into concerning the awareness of flight 401.

This marks the group first world wide expansion as its promotes the cause, remembrance and the legacy of flight 401 onto the world stage. One of the missions in which Mr. Bavington will undertake, shall be to establish lines of communication with the Royal Air Force Squadron 216th based at Royal Air Force Station Brize Norton. The 216th still flys and shall continue to fly the Lockheed L-1011 until 2015 in the tanker / transport role.

One goal to hopefully reach, would be to invite the 216 to dispatch one of their L-1011's to the United States so as to hopefully attend this year Homestead Air Reserve Base airshow scheduled for the weekend of November 7th 2009.

The flight 401 group wishes to seek to have an L-1011 operator such the 216th to be an operational supporter and with Mr, Bavington being stationed close to RAF Brize Norton that is an important goal for the group to achieve.

Homstead Air Force Base 301st ARRS Came To The Rescue of Eastern Airlines Flight 401

2009-03-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

Photo credit: Felix McLarney

Photo credit: Ron Olson

Sikorsky HH-34J "Choctaw"

Photo Credit: Mr. Ron Olson (http://www.rotorheadsrus.com/)

Homestead, Florida 14th March 2009: Aside from the U.S. Coast Guards HH-52A's helicopters dispatched to the crash site from Coast Guard Air Station Miami, which rendered the life saving capabilities consisting of medivac airlift and transporting the rescue teams to and from the crash site, the United States Air Force, also provided rotary wing aircraft assets toward the rescue effort. The 301st Air Reserve Rescue Squadron (ARRS) while operating the Sikorsky HH-34J "Choctaw", then based at Homestead Air Force Base also came to the rescue of Eastern Flight 401.

Originally developed by Sikorsky Helicopter as the UH-19 "Chickasaw", the HH-34 "Choctaw" first flew on 8th March 1954. Initially designed as the HSS-1 "Seabat" when it served with the U.S. Navy in the anti-submarine role. Thirty-Two (32) units were taken by the Air Force to act as transitional aircraft, thus filling the gap when the Grumman "Albatross" amphibious aircraft was retired and needed for the war in Vietnam.The Air Force Reserves (AFRES) operated the HH-34J "Choctaw" from June 1971 to June 1974. During their operational period, the HH-34J served with four U.S.A.F ARRS units, thus being the 301, 302, 304 & 305. Each ARRS unit had 8 helicopters each and in 1974 all 32 units were finally retired.

HH-52A's "Sea Guard" Helicopters From Miami U.S.C.G Air Station Comes to The Rescue of Flight 401 Survivors

2009-03-12T13:21:00.001-07:00

Shown above was then ten month old Baby Miguel Junco being taken by a medic from U.S. Coast Guard HH-52A Helicopter (side / modex No. 1446) to receive medical attention
A ten year old boy who survived the crash of Flight 401 is medivac by a U.S. Coast Guard HH-52A (side / modex No. unknown)

A bleeding survivor walks out from a U.S. Coast Guard HH-52A Helicopter (side / modex No. 1360) at Palmetto Hospital

Opa-Locka, Florida 13th March 2009: The wings of gold, the wings of Naval Aviation played a pivotal role in the rescue of the survivors from the Eastern Flight 401 crash. During the first hours after the crash, rescue efforts were undertaken by the U.S. Coast Guard operating the Sikorsky HH-52A "Sea Guard" Helicopters from the Miami Air Station at Opa Locka Airport (KOPF). The HH-52A's played a significant roll in transporting the rescue teams out to the crash site and ferrying the survivors to Miami for medical attention. Our research of the Miami Herald newspaper archives produced the above photos, which showed two specific HH-52A's from U.S.C.G Miami Air Station, thus numbered as aircraft's 1446 and 1360.

We have established contact with Captain Richard Kenin, the current Commanding Officer at the Miami Coast Guard Air Station. We are seeking to work with Captain Kenin and his staff, so as to hopefully identify and obtain historical information as to the possible other Helicopters and crews who played a major role in the saving of many lives. Tremendous appreciation to the crews, their experience and the leadership of the Miami Coast Guard Air Station on that fateful night. FLY NAVY!

NOTE: Reviewing archived photographs from the Miami Herald Newspaper, a third HH-52A, helicopter was partly identified as taking part in the rescue effort, but the photographed viewed, showed the side number of the aircraft as 1_76, the 2nd digit was obscured by the winch rescue rig mounted unit outside the main cabin door. Therefore, we conclude that so far three HH-52A's took part in the rescue effort.

Eastern Airlines N310EA Flight 401 Post Crash Site Photographs

2009-03-12T13:10:00.000-07:00

Nose section wreckage of aircraft N310EA within the Florida Everglades
N310EA tail section wreckage, visible and still attached to the aircraft is the aircraft number two Rolls Royce RB211-22C turbo fan engine (s/n-10073)

Miami,Florida 13th March 2009: The above crash photos shows the wreckage of N301EA nose section, which was photographed the morning after the crashed by the Miami Herald. The lower photo show the entire tail section of N310EA still with its number two Rolls Royce RB211-22C turbo fan engine installed.

A review of fleet engine records provided to us from the Eastern Airlines Company crash files collection, provided the the following data. The number two engine shown in the photograph, still installed onto the wreckage of N310EA had the following data.

Engine Serial # 10073

Installed onto N310EA on 14th December 1972

Total Time (Hours) 1,144

Total Time(Cycles) 623

N310EA Photographed in Its Glory at Eastern Airlines St. Louis Line Station

2009-03-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

N310EA taxing into St. Louis (date unknown)
Eastern Airlines ground crews greet N310EA for ground crew training
N310EA at St. Louis for Ground Crew Training (Photo Provided by Bill Hersch)

Miami, Florida 12th March 2009: During our review of large amounts of data harvested and provided by the group member's, the survivors of the 1972 crash, resulted in these great photographs of N310EA. These photographs shows N310EA taxing into the gate at St. Louis for ground crew traning. Keeping in mind that N310EA first flight from the Lockheed Burbank, California facility was on 30th July 1972 and there soon after delivered to Eastern and the crash which occurred five month thereafter, N310EA has a short live operational life.

Our research of the Eastern Airlines Company records storage facility, located at the Eastern Financial Credit Union building here in Miami, Florida, produced over three hundred Kodak 35mm color slides all about Eastern L-1011's, which upon full inspection, we hope it may yield further pictures of N310EA for publishing.

Research of Eastern Airlines Lockheed L-1011 Fleet in 2009

2009-03-12T11:35:00.001-07:00

Photo Credit / Acknowledgment to Alexa Conway, Eastern Alley

Miami, Florida 12th March 2009: In our constant research concerning the subject of Flight 401 1972 crash, we have gotten many queries as to the current disposition of the Eastern Airlines, Lockheed L-1011 fleet. Calling upon an industry contact a gentlemen who has a tremendous knowledge of scrapping commercial aircraft and who is an authority on this subject, we contacted Mr. Doug Scroggins of Scroggins Aviation, who specializes in parting out / scrapping large commercial aircraft worldwide. Cross checking our research with Scroggins Aviation, we have found the actual status of the first ten Eastern L-1011 fleet.

Tail Number S/N Status as of 2009

N301EA s/n-1002 Sold to Int'l Air Lease 3/ 89 (as 3/09 Scrapped)

N302EA s/n-1003 Sold to Delta 3/91 N781DL (as of 3/09 Scrapped)

N303EA s/n-1004 Sold to Int'l Air Lease 4/89 (as of 3/09 Scrapped)

N304EA s/n-1005 Sold to Aviation Sales Co. 1/84 (as 3/09 Scrapped)

N305EA s/n-1006 Sold to Delta 12/91 (as of 3/09 Scrapped)

N306EA s/n-1007 Sold to Aviation Sales Co. 1/84 (as of 3/09 Scrapped)

N307EA s/n-1008 Sold to LTU Germany 11/75 D-AERO, Subsequently sold back to Lockheed 4/77 N22679, sold again to LTU 2/97; sold back to Eastern 12/80 and leased back until 3/81; re registered N371EA; sold to Aviation Sales Co. 1/84 (as of 3/09 Scrapped)

N308EA s/n-1009 Sold to Delta 8/91 N783DL (Used on the TV Show LOST)

N309EA s/n-1010 Leased to TWA from 30th April to October 1973 and sold to First Chicago Leasing Corp. 10/88 (as of 3/09 Scrapped)

N310EA s/n-1011 Crashed Dec 29th 1972 (Eastern Airlines only L-1011 Lost )

As we continued our research, we shall seek to establish the status of the rest of the Eastern Airlines L-1011 fleet and post our finding in future articles within our blogspot. Should anyone have any information in which my enhance our research, please feel free to contact us at group email at ealflt401@gmail.com

Archive Research at the Eastern Airlines Retirees Association Collection for Flight 401 Information

2009-03-11T18:59:00.001-07:00

Recalling and utilizing his former experience as an aviation accident surveyor for the Lloyd's of London based AIRCLAIMS, Ltd. coupled with his many years dealing with airline / aircraft records, Mr. Benny Benitez, Founder and CEO of the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consulting Group reviews files of other Eastern accidents in search of Flight 401 data.

Ms. Catherine Smallwood the Chief Aviation of the Artist of the Digital Aircraft Factory, inspects one of hundreds of Eastern Airlines Kodak 35mm photo slides. Searching for any additional photos of aircraft N310EA. Catherine is working to establish a computer generated rendering of aircraft N310EA

Mr. Ron Infantino a surviving passenger from flight 401 searches the endless boxes of historical Eastern Airlines archived records for information about the 1972 crash.

Mr. Vito Borrelli, President Emeritus, Eastern Airlines Retirees Association with Mr. Ron Infantino review a Eastern Airlines scrap book con tainting articles about the 1972 crash which was donated to the Association.

Miami, Florida March 11th 2009: With the generous assistance of Mr. Vito Borrelli, the President Emeritus of the Eastern Airlines Retirees Association and Mr. Roland Moore, Esq., Legal Council of the Eastern Airlines Estate, the Flight 401 Tribute Group dispatched a research team to the Eastern Airlines company archive storage facility, located within the Eastern Financial Credit Union building in Miami, Florida to search for additional information concerning the December 29th 1972 crash. The "Research Team" was headed up by Mr. Ron Infantino, who the group affectionately calls "Commander".

Accompanied by Mr. Benny F. Benitez and Ms. Catherine Smallwood, two key volunteer members to the group, over 30 boxes of company historical records and file cabinets were inspected during the first of many visits to the site. Recalling a comment made by Ron, it was like taking a trip back in time referring to all of the information about the history of Eastern Airlines contained within the storage facility at South Royal Poinciana Blvd. facility.

Eastern Airlines N310EA Post Crash Archived Techincal Records Review

2009-03-10T20:47:00.000-07:00

A view of the well blended intake of the Lockheed L-1011 number two engine position. Unlike the McDonnell Douglas DC-10 of a similar second engine, tail mounted design, the Lockheed design had an esthetically pleasing form and function when compared to the DC-10 which appeared as an after though in design.

The front page of the National Transport Safety Board (NTSB) Aircraft Accident Report (File No. 1-0016) concerning Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Lockheed L-1011-1 N310EA (s/n 1011)

NTSB form 1765.2 (11/70) Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Crash Report No. (NTSB-AAR-73-14) / Work unit No. 1018-C / Security Classification of this report UNCLASSIFIED.

Miami, Florida February 21st 2009: Holding weekly research and review meetings at the offices of Mr. Ron Infantino, and having obtained historical, technical post crash records and reports, the Flight 401 Group has noted a few eye raising issues discovered form the information being utilized and of which the Group wishes to bring to light concerning the crash.

Employing the combined talents of the entire group with the recollection of those who were there that night, those who experienced it first hand and survived to the application of the professional aviation knowledge being applied through both Mr. Benny Benitez technical aircraft accident investigation background and Ms. Catherine Smallwood Commercial pilot, FAA CFI, CFII, MEI, Gold Seal Flight Instructor, CRM operational background a new light is being shed.

Despite, the accident having occurred 37 years ago many new and interesting facts have already surfaced concerning the crash of 401 from the boxes of records that then were safe guarded by Eastern Airlines Corporate storage facility.

As the group process with the analysis and review of this data, future articles shall be created and thus posted. In the interim, should there be any specific queries, comments and / or concerns, please drop the group a line at our email ( EALFLT401@gmail.com )

Research of Eastern Airlines Historical Records of Flight 401 Crash

2009-03-10T20:44:00.001-07:00

Front Page of the then 30 cents Miami Herald Newspaper, final Sunday December 31st 1972 edition. The Lower picture shows a medic carrying the youngest of the survivors of the flight 401 crash, then ten month Baby Miguel Junco. The child was airlifted from the crash site by a U.S. Coast Guard HH-52A Rescue Helicopter side No. 1446 from the Coast Guard Air Station located at Opa Locka Airport.

Shown above is a cockpit / cabin layout showing the locations of a few of the individuals on board flight 401 on the night of December 29th 1972. Shown in the pictures starting with the cockpit are Capt. Robert A. Loft (killed), First Officer Albert J. Stockstill (killed), Second Officer Donald Repo (Died 31 hours after the crash), Angelo Donadeo Eastern Airlines Technician (survived). Cabin area were Flight Attendants Mercedes Ruiz, Beverly Repo, Adriana Hamilton and Sharon Transue all (survived), Also shown within the article are passenger's Marin Siminerio and Xiomara Casado who also (survived).

Front page of the then 10 cents "The Miami News" Saturday December 30th 1972 afternoon edition. Main front page photograph shows medics at Mercy Hospital handling a 10 year boy who survived the crash of flight 401. Shown behind the medical rescue staff is yet another U.S. Coast Guard HH-52A Helicopter (side number unknown) from the "MIAMI" Air Station.

Miami, Florida February 14th 2009: One of the benefits in which the Flight 401 Tribute Group has is the talent and experience being lent and brought by Mr. Benny F. Benitez, who at one time during his aviation career, prior to the establishment of his aviation consulting firm, dealt with handling aviation accident investigations world wide for the benefit of Underwriters within and for the Lloyd's of London aviation insurance syndicate. Locating newspaper articles provided from the private collections of the survivors, tapping into NTSB records and historical files and speaking to his group members, the mission is assist the group in establishing a solid set of facts for publication, awareness and for the sake of historical preservation.

Liaising with Miami Herald news reporter Ms. Luisa Yanez, the group hopes to bring out facts that may have been lost or maybe forgotten with the passing of time since the crash 37 years ago. The significant aviation historical value of this accident is that the lost of flight 401 paved the we for what today is the fundamental bases of all aircrews, both civilian / commercial and military training known as Cockpit Resource Management (CRM). The flying public has benefited from this universal and fundamental training of all flight crews. A benefit that started with the significant lost which occurred on the night of December 29th 1972 in the Everglades of South Florida.

Assistance Arrives To The Eastern Airlines Flight 401 Tribute Group

2009-03-09T22:10:00.000-07:00

Shown above with the survivors from EAL Flt 401 is Benny Benitez Founder & CEO of the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consulting Group who has dedicate to help the Tribute Group
Also show with the group and providing additional support via the Digital Aircraft Factory is Catherine Smallwood who shall be creating a digital computer generated rendering of N310EA for promotional purpose

Miami, Florida February 7th 2009: On Saturday February 7th 2009 at the AFLAC office of Mr. Ron Infantino, help once again came to the survivor's of the December 29th 1972 Eastern Airlines Flight 401 crash via Benny Benitez and Catherine Smallwood who shall be assisting the group to establish a memorial to those lives that were touched and effected by the crash of Flight 401.

Benny brings over 25 years of world wide aviation industry contacts, he is affiliated with the Greater Miami Aviation Association, the Miami Maintenance Management Council, the Air Force Association and is a well established, experienced and respected Aviation Consultant within the Miami / South Florida aviation community and aboard.

Catherine forte, harness and blends the power of art, aviation and Hollywood special effect programs thus to create computer generated aviation art in support of the group. Via the use of such special effects programs, as Light Wave 9.0, MODO and Photoshop, Catherine, shall "digitally" create and render aircraft N310EA (c/n 1011) for the creation of prints and digital full motion clips. Currently, her work via the Digital Aircraft Factory a subsidiary of the 94th AeroClaims-Aviation Consultant Group is assisting yet another Miami based Eastern Airline project concerning the restoration of an Eastern Airlines DC-7B N836D. Catherine capabilities has already digitally rendered N836D flying over South Beach. Both Benny and Catherine are committed toward this worth wild cause.