Hylton

More than 10 passengers from American Airlines Flight 331, which overshot the runway in Kingston last Tuesday, have hired prominent attorney-at-law Ambassador Anthony Hylton "to protect their interest".

Hylton, a former Cabinet minister, cautioned passengers not to sign any document that would absolve the airline or "anyone else" of any responsibility for their luggage.

His comments came amid confusion among some passengers about the US$5,000 (J$450,000) American Airlines has offered as compensation for not being able to deliver their luggage.

Hylton, who was educated at Georgetown University Law Centre, explained that airlines have strict responsibilities relating to the luggage of their passengers.

He told The Gleaner that he was retained to "bring relevant action against the parties involved".

The former foreign affairs and energy minister made it clear that he would not be involved in the investigation, but would watch very closely.

American Airlines Flight 331 was attempting to land at the Norman Manley International Airport when it careened off the runway and came to a stop just metres from the sea.

The United States National Transportation Safety Board and the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) are leading the investigation to determine what caused the accident which left 92 of 148 passengers with minor injuries.

JCAA Director General Lieutenant Colonel Oscar Derby said the investigation was now in the fact-finding stage. Following this, he said all the evidence collected will be carefully analysed before any conclusion is reached.

The nose section of the American Airlines aircraft which overshot the runway at the Norman Manley International Airport, in Kingston, on December 22, being removed by cranes Sunday night. The tail section was moved Saturday night. The aircraft, carrying 148 people, plus a crew of six from Miami, ended up on the beach across the road from the airport. There were no fatalities. - JIS photo