American Airlines Flight 191 was a tragic aviation incident that occurred on May 25, 1979. The flight was a regularly scheduled passenger flight from O’Hare International Airport in Chicago to Los Angeles International Airport. Unfortunately, it is one of the deadliest aviation accidents in U.S. history.
Incident Overview:
- Date: May 25, 1979.
- Flight: American Airlines Flight 191.
- Aircraft: McDonnell Douglas DC-10.
Key Details:
- Takeoff and Engine Separation:
- During takeoff from O’Hare, the left engine and pylon detached from the wing of the DC-10. This led to a loss of control and subsequent crash.
- During takeoff from O’Hare, the left engine and pylon detached from the wing of the DC-10. This led to a loss of control and subsequent crash.
- Crash Site:
- The aircraft crashed into an open field near the airport, killing all 271 people on board and two individuals on the ground.
- Investigation Findings:
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was the improper maintenance and reinstallation of the engine and pylon by American Airlines’ maintenance personnel.
- Groundbreaking Changes:
- The incident had a significant impact on aviation safety regulations. It led to changes in inspection procedures and maintenance practices, particularly regarding the procedures for attaching and inspecting engine pylons.
Remembering the Victims:
The tragic event of American Airlines Flight 191 is remembered as a solemn moment in aviation history. The lives lost on that day are commemorated by families, friends, and the aviation community. Memorial services, both private and public, have taken place over the years to honor the victims and reflect on the importance of aviation safety.
The legacy of Flight 191 has contributed to improvements in aviation safety protocols and serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to learning from past incidents to enhance the safety of air travel.
