Ep 7. Concorde - Up in Flames

Concorde - Up in Flames is the seventh episode of the eighth season of the popular television show AIR DISASTERS. This episode tells the story of one of the most devastating aviation accidents in history, the crash of Air France Flight 4590. On July 25, 2000, the plane crashed just minutes after takeoff, killing all 109 passengers and crew on board, as well as four people on the ground.

The episode takes a deep dive into the events leading up to the crash, as well as the investigation that followed. It explores the history of the Concorde, a supersonic passenger jet that was once the pride of the aviation industry, but had been in decline for many years before the accident. Viewers will also learn about the passengers and crew on board, including several high-profile figures such as German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld.

The episode explores the technical issues that led to the crash, including a tire blowout that caused debris to puncture the fuel tank and ignite a fire. It also examines the response of the crew and air traffic controllers, and how they attempted to handle the rapidly deteriorating situation. Despite their best efforts, the plane was unable to maintain altitude and crashed into a hotel just outside of Paris.

The investigation into the crash was complex and multi-faceted, and the episode explores the various factors that contributed to the tragedy. It examines the design flaws that made the Concorde vulnerable to such accidents, as well as the inadequate training and procedures that were in place at the time. It also looks at the role of the airline industry as a whole, and how they responded to the crisis.

Throughout the episode, viewers will hear from experts in aviation safety and engineering, as well as from individuals who were directly involved in the investigation. The show also features dramatizations of key moments during the flight and crash, giving viewers a vivid sense of the emotional and physical toll of the disaster.

Ultimately, Concorde - Up in Flames is a gripping and deeply moving episode that offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking look at one of the most significant aviation disasters of the modern era. Despite the tragic nature of the event, it is a powerful reminder of the importance of learning from our mistakes and constantly striving to improve safety in the air.