Plane crashes on Thai island, killing 91; black boxes found

PHUKET, Thailand (AP) — Investigators searched the twisted and charred wreckage of a passenger flight Monday for clues why it crashed in stormy weather on the resort island of Phuket, killing at least 91 people, including 55 foreign tourists.

Searchers found the plane’s two flight data recorders, or black boxes, but authorities said it was too early to say what caused Sunday’s crash. Transport Minister Theera Haocharoen said the black boxes would be sent to the United States for analysis.

“Hopefully, we will learn in a few weeks the cause of accident,” he said.

Officials have said weather was likely a factor. The budget One-Two-Go Airlines flight was carrying 123 passengers and seven crew members from the capital Bangkok to Phuket when it skidded off the runway in driving wind and rain. It then ran through a low retaining wall and split in two.

Survivors described their escape amid chaos, smoke and fire.

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