Mayday (2003)
S12E08 Catastrophe at OHare (American Airlines Flight 191)
Episode Overview
On May 25, 1979, tragedy strikes as American Airlines Flight 191 takes off from Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. Just moments into the flight, the left engine detaches due to a pylon failure linked to inadequate maintenance practices. The aircraft subsequently plummets into an open field, resulting in the deaths of all 271 passengers and crew onboard, along with two individuals on the ground. This catastrophic event highlights serious lapses in safety protocols and maintenance standards within the aviation industry.