Ep 4. Missed Approach

Missed Approach is an episode from the seventh season of the popular documentary series, AIR DISASTERS. The show, as its name suggests, is focused on investigating some of the deadliest aviation incidents in history. Each episode explores the factors that led to the tragedy, using interviews with pilots, investigators, and eyewitnesses, as well as a combination of re-enactments and real-life footage. Missed Approach is no exception, and it follows a case that took place in the heart of Texas.

The episode starts by introducing viewers to a commuter flight that was scheduled to take off from San Antonio on September 7th, 2011. The flight, operated by a regional carrier named Colgan Air, was bound for Houston, with 49 passengers and crew on board. The plane was a Bombardier Dash 8-Q400, a twin-engine turboprop aircraft that's commonly used for short-haul flights. Among the passengers were several business travelers, as well as a family on their way to a wedding.

As the plane took off, things seemed to be going smoothly. The weather was clear, and the pilot, Captain Sean Archuleta, was an experienced aviator who had logged over six thousand flight hours. However, just a few minutes into the flight, things took a turn. The plane started experiencing turbulence, and the control tower advised the crew to switch to a different altitude. The pilots complied, but shortly after, they received an automated warning known as a stick shaker. This is a device that vibrates the aircraft's control stick to alert the pilots that the plane is in danger of stalling. The crew tried to correct the situation by increasing power to the engines, but to no avail.

The rest of the episode focuses on the investigation into what caused the plane to stall, and why the pilots were unable to recover control. The investigators look into several factors, including the design of the aircraft, the training of the pilots, and the company's safety culture. They also consider the possibility of human error, as the pilots appeared to be confused about the plane's position and altitude. All of these factors are explored in detail, from the technical details of the aircraft's systems to the personal stories of the crew and passengers.

While the episode does not reveal the exact cause of the crash, it does offer several insights into the complex interactions that can lead to an aviation disaster. One of the key takeaways is the importance of clear communication in high-stress situations. The investigators criticize the airline for its inadequate training, which did not prepare the pilots for the scenario that they encountered. They also note that the cockpit environment was not conducive to effective teamwork, as the first officer was hesitant to challenge the captain's decisions.

Overall, Missed Approach is a sobering reminder of the risks and challenges that come with air travel. It provides a detailed and nuanced exploration of a tragic incident, highlighting the many factors that can contribute to an aviation disaster. While it can be difficult to watch at times, it's an important show for anyone who's interested in aviation safety or who wants to understand the complex systems that underpin modern air travel.