Three of the Most Notable Plane Crashes Throughout History

Throughout aviation history, certain plane crashes have left lasting impacts, not only due to their tragic toll but also due to the rare survival stories and lessons that followed. Here, we look at three notable crashes that shocked the world, each with its own story of resilience and the intense challenges faced by survivors.

Japan Airlines Flight 123

On August 12, 1985, Japan Airlines Flight 123, a Boeing 747, suffered a catastrophic accident, marking one of the deadliest single-aircraft disasters in history. The flight took off from Tokyo, heading to Osaka, with over 500 passengers and crew on board. Shortly after takeoff, a sudden failure in the aircraft’s rear pressure bulkhead caused a rapid decompression in the cabin. The damaged bulkhead, which had previously been repaired incorrectly, led to the loss of hydraulic controls, leaving the crew with almost no ability to steer or stabilize the plane.

For 32 minutes, the crew fought to control the aircraft, which was veering dangerously. Despite their best efforts, the plane eventually crashed into Mount Takamagahara. Out of the 524 people on board, only four survived the crash, with the rest perishing in the tragic impact. The incident brought attention to the importance of structural maintenance and repair protocols in aviation, leading to improved industry standards. It also raised awareness of the value of quick emergency response times, as many believe that some passengers might have been saved had the response been faster. This disaster left a deep mark on Japan and the world, underscoring the critical importance of safety in air travel.

Northwest Airlines Flight 255

On August 16, 1987, Northwest Airlines Flight 255, a McDonnell Douglas MD-82, took off from Detroit Metropolitan Airport on a scheduled flight to California. Shortly after takeoff, the plane failed to gain the necessary altitude and crashed. Investigations revealed that the pilots had not extended the plane’s wing flaps and slats before takeoff—a crucial step needed for lift. A malfunctioning warning system failed to alert the pilots about the issue, leading to a sudden loss of control.

The crash killed 156 people on board, including most passengers and crew members. Only a four-year-old girl, Cecelia Cichan, miraculously survived, found still strapped to her seat amid the wreckage. She became a symbol of survival, though she later chose to live a private life, rarely speaking about the crash. This disaster brought important changes in airline safety procedures, especially regarding pre-flight checks and warning system reliability. The accident left a lasting impact on the aviation industry, highlighting the need for thorough safety protocols and the responsibility of crew members in following them.

Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571

On October 13, 1972, Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571, a Fairchild FH-227, was carrying 45 people, including a rugby team, friends, and family, from Montevideo, Uruguay, to Santiago, Chile. Due to poor weather and navigation errors, the plane crashed into the Andes Mountains, leaving many passengers injured or dead. Trapped at a high altitude with limited supplies, the survivors faced brutal conditions, with freezing temperatures, high altitudes, and little hope of quick rescue. In a desperate measure to survive, they rationed available food, but as days stretched into weeks, they ran out of supplies and faced an unthinkable decision to survive.

After more than two months stranded, two of the survivors, Nando Parrado and Roberto Canessa, decided to attempt a dangerous trek through the mountains to find help. After a grueling 10-day hike, they finally encountered a Chilean shepherd, who contacted authorities. Thanks to their bravery, the remaining 14 survivors were rescued after 72 days in the Andes. This story, widely known through books and films, became a symbol of human endurance, bringing to light the psychological and physical strength that people can find in the most harrowing situations.