"I don't think anyone in the industry, including ourselves, were fully aware of the potential of dust as a hazard, " Mr. Mechler said.

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The inhalation of these fine dust particles represents a health hazard that was known to the military as long ago as 1974.

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Aviation officials feared the dust could stop jet engines - an unacceptable hazard - and Ms McDonagh was among the thousands left stranded.

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The view from the hazard-avoidance camera with and without the clear dust cover.

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