Ep 1. Miracle Escape

On the season 7 premiere of "Air Disasters," viewers are taken back to a chilling 1982 incident involving a British Airways flight. The episode, titled "Miracle Escape," details the harrowing moments leading up to the plane's crash and the miraculous survival of everyone on board.

Flight 009, a Boeing 747, was en route from London to Auckland, New Zealand when it ran into trouble over Indonesia. The plane encountered a large cloud of volcanic ash, which caused all four engines to fail. The crew was forced to navigate the plane through the ash cloud and attempt an emergency landing at a nearby airport.

As the plane descended, the pilots realized that the ash had severely damaged the aircraft's engines and they were unable to achieve the necessary speed to stay aloft. With no options left, the crew attempted a risky maneuver: restarting the engines mid-flight by descending into an area of cleaner air and then restarting them when they were at a safe altitude.

Miraculously, the pilots were able to restart one engine and then the others, allowing them to climb out of danger and head back to Jakarta for an emergency landing. The episode features interviews with the crew and passengers on board, as well as dramatic reconstructions of the events.

"Miracle Escape" also examines the investigation into the incident and the changes that have been made to air travel regulations and procedures in the years since. The volcanic ash incident led to the establishment of the International Airways Volcano Watch, which monitors volcanic activity around the world and issues alerts to airlines and airports.

Throughout the episode, viewers witness the skill and bravery of the crew in the face of extreme danger. The pilots' quick thinking and expert flying saved the lives of everyone on board, and the episode pays tribute to their heroic actions. The story of Flight 009 is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the aviation industry, and the importance of constant vigilance and preparation in the face of unexpected challenges.

"Air Disasters" has become a staple of the Smithsonian Channel, offering a fascinating look at the science and history behind some of the most devastating plane crashes in history. Season 7 promises to continue this tradition, with gripping tales of survival, investigation, and innovation in the world of aviation. "Miracle Escape" is just the beginning of another exciting season that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.