Ep 7. Runway Runoff

On this episode of Air Disasters, titled "Runway Runoff," viewers will see the investigation into a plane crash that occurred in 2016 in Kazakhstan. A Bek Air flight heading from Almaty to Nur-Sultan crashed just minutes after takeoff, killing 12 of the 93 passengers and crew members on board.

The episode begins by showing the plane, a Fokker 100, moments before takeoff. The weather conditions were reportedly poor, with low visibility and snow on the runway. Despite this, the crew decided to proceed with takeoff.

Shortly after gaining altitude, the plane began experiencing problems. The crew reported to air traffic control that they had lost control of the aircraft and requested to return to the airport. However, before they could make a safe landing, the plane crashed into a building just a few miles from the airport.

In the aftermath of the crash, investigators from the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan were called in to determine the cause of the accident. They analyzed black box data, examined the wreckage, and conducted interviews with surviving crew members and witnesses.

As the investigation progresses, viewers will learn about the various factors that contributed to the crash. For example, the crew may have misjudged the takeoff speed, leading to an aerodynamic stall. Additionally, the Fokker 100 has a reputation for being difficult to fly in certain weather conditions, which may have played a role in the accident.

Furthermore, the investigators will look at the role of the airline and whether it had adequate safety protocols in place. This aspect of the investigation is particularly relevant, as Bek Air had a history of safety violations in the years leading up to the crash. In fact, just a few months prior to the accident, the airline had been fined for failing to properly train its pilots.

Throughout the episode, viewers will see archival footage of the crash and its aftermath, as well as interviews with aviation experts and those involved in the investigation. The show will also feature dramatic reenactments of the flight and crash, which provide a chilling glimpse into the final moments of the passengers and crew.

Overall, "Runway Runoff" is a gripping episode of Air Disasters that underscores the importance of proper safety protocols in the aviation industry. It highlights the complex and sometimes deadly consequences of even small errors or oversights, and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in air travel.