On February 12, 2009, Colgan Air Flight 3407 crashed near Buffalo Niagara International Airport in New York, marking a tragic loss of life. Today, February 12, 2026, observes the 17th anniversary of the incident, when the Bombardier Q400 turboprop struck a house in Clarence Center, five miles from the runway. The crash claimed 49 people aboard and one resident on the ground.
The Final Moments in the Cockpit
A National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation released a transcript capturing the aircraft’s descent from 6,000 to 4,000 feet. Captain Marvin Renslow and First Officer Rebecca Shaw discussed heavy ice buildup on the wings.
Shaw noted, “It’s lots of ice.” Renslow replied, “Oh yeah, that’s the most I’ve seen, most ice I’ve seen on the leading edges in a long time, in a while anyway I should say.”
At 10:16 p.m., shortly after lowering the landing gear and adjusting flaps, Shaw said, “Uhhh.” A stall warning sounded, followed by a 6.7-second horn indicating autopilot disconnection and increased engine power.
At 10:16:34.8 p.m., Renslow exclaimed, “Jesus Christ.” Shaw confirmed raising the flaps and asked about retracting the gear. Renslow responded, “We’re down.” Shaw’s final word was “We,” followed by a scream. The recording ended at 10:16:52 p.m. as the plane stalled and plunged uncontrollably.
Investigation Highlights
The NTSB probed Renslow’s training on the Bombardier Q400. One instructor observed he learned slowly but improved toward the end. A pilot who flew with him months prior praised his skills as part of normal progression, despite ongoing familiarization with systems.
Fatigue factors emerged, with Renslow reporting to Newark airport at 9:18 p.m. the previous day.
FAA Safety Reforms
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) introduced key changes post-crash. Employers now submit pilot training records for better proficiency tracking and failure identification across carriers.
Prior rules had looser rest requirements for operations, duty periods, and reserve pilots. New regulations incorporate scientific data on circadian rhythms, sleep, and rest needs.
