Spencer Bachus Calls For Measures To Improve Visibility On Approach

U.S. Congressman Spencer Bachus (R-AL-06) is calling for "immediate changes" around Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (KBHM) following the accident involving UPS Flight 1354. Both pilots on board the airplane were fatally injured when it went down on approach to the airport.

Bachus (pictured) said that trees on the approach path need to be removed, and part of a hill in that same area may have to be leveled as well. He said a lot of money has been spent acquiring houses under eminent domain laws, but that additional houses may have to be bought.

One of those belongs to Cornelius Benson, who according to television station WBRC lives across the street from the accident site. He has already hired a tree removal company to clear trees on his property that were damaged as the plane came down, but his house was not damaged.

Still, Bachus said it is not certain whether Benson's or anyone else's home will need to be purchased. He did say several trees need to be removed.

The Birmingham Airport Authority held a meeting for residents living near the airport Wednesday to give them an opportunity to express their concerns.

FMI: www.flybirmingham.com