The deadliest plane crash in history, based on the number of fatalities, was the collision of KLM Flight 4805 and Pan Am Flight 1736 in 1977.
Tenerife Airport Disaster: The Deadliest Plane Crash
This tragic event occurred on March 27, 1977, at Tenerife Airport in the Canary Islands. Two Boeing 747 airplanes, KLM Flight 4805 and Pan Am Flight 1736, collided on a foggy runway, resulting in the loss of 583 lives. The KLM flight was attempting to take off without clearance, colliding with the Pan Am flight which was taxiing on the same runway.
Here's a breakdown of the disaster:
- Date: March 27, 1977
- Location: Tenerife Airport, Canary Islands
- Flights Involved: KLM Flight 4805 and Pan Am Flight 1736
- Aircraft Type: Boeing 747
- Fatalities: 583
| Flight | Aircraft Type | Fatalities |
|---|---|---|
| KLM Flight 4805 | Boeing 747 | 248 |
| Pan Am Flight 1736 | Boeing 747 | 335 |
| Total | 583 |
The Tenerife Airport disaster is a stark reminder of the importance of clear communication, adherence to safety protocols, and the devastating consequences of human error in aviation. The crash led to significant changes in aviation safety procedures, including improved communication protocols and a greater emphasis on crew resource management.
