Part 7/8:
In the aftermath of the crash, investigations revealed serious failings in Alaska Airlines’ maintenance practices, including inadequate inspections and a corporate culture that prioritized schedules over safety. The crash of Flight 261 emphasized the need for rigorous oversight in aviation maintenance, ultimately leading to revisions in airline policies and pilot protocols.
More critically, it served as a grave reminder of how corporate greed can have dire consequences. The decisive actions of Captain Thompson and First Officer Tansky earned them posthumous awards for heroism, remembered not only for their efforts to save the lives of their passengers but also for their commitment to safety in the face of overwhelming odds.