The worst plane crashes in history are defined by the number of fatalities, and can be categorized by the deadliest crash involving a single aircraft and the single aviation accident with the largest overall loss of life.
Here's a breakdown of the worst plane crashes in history based on fatalities:
Deadliest Crash Involving a Single Aircraft
- The 1985 Japan Airlines Flight 123 accident resulted in 520 fatalities. This is the highest number of fatalities on board a single aircraft in aviation history.
Single Aviation Accident with the Largest Loss of Life
- The 1977 Tenerife airport disaster caused 583 fatalities. This occurred when two Boeing 747s collided on the runway. It remains the aviation accident with the highest overall loss of life.
| Accident | Year | Fatalities | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tenerife Airport Disaster | 1977 | 583 | Collision of two Boeing 747s on the runway. |
| Japan Airlines Flight 123 | 1985 | 520 | Loss of control and crash of a Boeing 747 due to a faulty repair. |
