U.S. government orders checks of seaplanes like one in Miami crash

Jan. 2, 2006
FAA grounds Mallard seaplanes

MIAMI_The Federal Aviation Administration on Friday grounded all seaplanes similar to the one that crashed last week off Miami Beach until they are inspected.

The G-73 Turbine Mallard plummeted into the ocean Dec. 19 when its right wing separated from the fuselage minutes after taking off for the Bahamas, killing all 20 on board.

An initial investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board found fatigue cracks along a wing of the plane, owned by Chalk's Ocean Airways. A final report is not expected for several months.

About 25 other Grumman G-73 seaplanes are in operation, FAA officials have said. Chalk's was the only commercial operator of the 1940s-era aircraft.

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