Mayday (2003)
S09E01 Panic on the Runway (British Airtours Flight 28M)
Episode Overview
On August 22, 1985, British Airtours Flight 28M experiences a catastrophic engine failure during takeoff, resulting in a rupture of the wing's fuel tank and igniting a fire. The flight crew manages to halt the aircraft on the runway, but flames quickly engulf the cabin. Tragically, 55 passengers lose their lives, primarily due to toxic smoke inhalation before they can escape. Investigators later determine that the engine failure was caused by a fatigued component, leading to a critical examination of safety protocols.