Airports

The Deadliest Crashes in History

Published

1 year ago

11/05/2022

Air transportation is the safest way to travel, however, our world has witnessed some terrific unforgettable air crashes. In this article, we are to list the Top 10 deadliest air disasters of all time listed in an article written by Patrick Smith.

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Pan Am Flight 1736 and KLM Flight 4805, 1977 (583 fatalities)

Japan Airlines Flight 123, 1985 (520)
Saudi Arabian Flight 763 and Kazakhstan Airlines Flight 1907, 1996 (349)

Turkish Airlines Flight 981, 1974 (346)
Saudia Flight 163, 1980 (301)
Iranian military Il-76 crash, 2003 (275)

American Airlines Flight 191, 1979 (273)
American Airlines Flight 587, 2001 (265)
China Airlines Flight 140, 1994 (264)

Nigeria Airways Flight 2120, 1991 (261)

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What’s the number one deadliest crash in history and how could it have been avoided? Let us go back 43 years ago, it was March 27, 1977, two aircraft, Boeing 747s, a Pan American World Airways and a KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Tenerife Airport. It was a series of unfortunate events, referring to the Tenerife information center, at 1:15 pm on the day of the accident, the planes were supposed to land on Las Palmas Airport but a small terrorist bomb exploded in the terminal building of Las Palmas Airport. And there was allegedly a second one so the airport authorities closed the airport in the meantime and asked the two airplanes to divert to the nearest airport for the time being, which was Los Rodeos, Tenerife. Los Rodeos was not equipped whatsoever to handle many large aircrafts, it had only one runway and one taxiway running parallel to it, there were also several smaller taxiways connected to this main runway. The aircrafts both arrived at Los Rodeos airport. Whilst on the ground, the captain of the KLM flight decided to refuel, to save time, but if he only knew how that simple move changed everything. The weather was fine until just before the accident, and if not for KLM requesting extra fuel at the last minute, both would be on their way sooner. During the delay, there was a sudden haze that covered the entire airport and that fuel also meant extra weight, affecting how quickly the 747 can become airborne. Because the taxiway normally leading to runway 30 is unavailable the aircrafts had to use the runway itself for taxiing. Once they reach the end, they’ll make a 180-degree turn before taking off in the opposite direction. This technique though rare is called a “back-taxi.” On that fateful day, it put two 747s on the same runway at the same time, not only were they invisible to each but also to the tower, due to weather, and the airport, unfortunately, had no ground tracking radar.

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Five hundred and eighty-three people were killed in what remains the biggest air disaster in history CREDIT: GETTY

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KLM taxis first into the runway with Pan Am following several yards behind. The Captain of the KLM reached the end of the runway, turned around, and waited for permission to take off. While the Pan Am was supposed to taxi to taxiway C3 but made a mistake due to low visibility and continued to taxiway C4 and that as well adds a few seconds more on the runway where they could’ve gotten off of it way earlier.

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Boeing 747-121 (N736PA) ‘Clipper Victor’

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Meanwhile, already in position and ready for takeoff, KLM’s first officer, takes the radio and receives the ATC route clearance, it’s not a takeoff clearance but rather a procedure outlining turns, altitudes, and frequencies for use once airborne. As stated by Patrick Smith, the route clearance was mistaken for a takeoff clearance. The first officer starts to prepare everything for takeoff and then finishes off with an unusual, somewhat hesitant phrase, backdropped by the sound of accelerating engines. “We are now, uh, at takeoff”. The captain releases the brakes. “We gaan,” he is heard saying on the cockpit voice recorder. “Let’s go.” And with that, they started their takeoff without clearance.

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KLM Boeing 747-206B (PH-BUF) ‘The Rhine’

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When the first officer said “At takeoff” even though it’s not standard phraseology among pilots. But it caught the attention of both the Pan Am crew and the control tower. They were both in disbelief that the KLM has started moving so they both reached for their microphones simultaneously.

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“And we’re still taxiing down the runway,” says the Pan Am first officer.

And the tower’s message to KLM. “Okay,” says the controller. “Stand by for takeoff. I will call you.”

There was no reply. This silence was taken unfortunately as an acknowledgment.

Both of these messages were enough to make the pilot of the KLM stop in his tracks but sadly the captain received neither one of those transmissions. The problem was because they occurred simultaneously, they overlapped.

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Pilots and controllers communicate via two-way VHF radios. The process is similar to speaking over a walkie-talkie: a person activates a microphone, speaks, then releases the button and waits for an acknowledgment, so the Pan Am and the towers messages overlapped and canceled each other out.

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Hence KLM’s captain hears only the word “okay,” followed by a five-second squeal, so he keeps going.

Ten seconds later there is one final exchange, clearly and maddeningly audible on the post-crash tapes. “Report when runway clear,” the tower says to Pan Am.

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“We’ll report when we’re clear,” acknowledges Pan AM.

Focused on the takeoff, KLM’s captain and his first officer miss this. But the second officer, sitting behind them, does not. Alarmed, with their plane now racing forward at a hundred knots, he leans forward. “Is he not clear?” he asks. “That Pan American?”

“Oh, yes,” KLM’s captain answers emphatically.

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In the Pan Am cockpit, nose-to-nose with the still unseen KLM aircraft fast approach the Pan Am crew feeling something isn’t right.

“Let’s get the f*** out of here,” Pan Am’s captain says nervously.

A few moments later, the lights of the KLM 747 are seen dead ahead, 2,000 feet away and closing fast.

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“There he is!” cries Pan Am’s captain, shoving the thrust levers to full power. “Look at him! Goddamn, that son of a bitch is coming!” He yanks the plane’s steering tiller, turning left as hard as he can, toward the grass at the edge of the runway.

“Get off! Get off! Get off!” shouts Pan Am’s first officer.

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Finally, KLM’s captain sees them, but it’s too late. He pulls back on the elevators, almost makes it, but just as his plane breaks ground, its undercarriage and engines slices into the ceiling of the aircraft, instantly destroying its midsection and setting off a series of explosions.

image: https://alchetron.com/Tenerife-airport-disaster

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All of the passengers and 14 crew members passed away from the KLM and 326 passengers and 9 crew on the Pan Am flight died, primarily due to the spilled fuel igniting and exploding. 56 passengers and 5 crew from the Pan Am made it out alive. Some people who had survived the crash and were out on the runway were killed by shrapnel flying from the 747’s engines, which were still running after the impact. Firefighters initially rushed to the KLM aircraft, believing, due to the thick fog, that there was only one plane involved. Ironically, that was the plane that had no survivors.

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On the report of the extensive investigation on this tragedy by 70 investigators is that there are five main reasons behind this devastation:

The KLM flight started its take-off without proper clearance.
The Pan Am flight missed the third exit it was told to use, instead of carrying on towards exit four.

The loss of two crucial radio messages, due to their being broadcast at the same time and causing cross-interference, resulting in meaningless radio hiss-and-crackle.
Use of non-standard responses, such as “OK”.
The airport being forced to accommodate several large airplanes, way beyond its capacity.

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Even though it’s too late but good nonetheless, improvements were made to the airport after the catastrophe making sure an accident like that to never occur once again. All of those reasons listed above were addressed one by one and made a rule for each one to prevent such accidents in the future.

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For more detailed information:

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/comment/tenerife-airport-disaster/

https://www.tenerife-information-centre.com/tenerife-airport-disaster.html

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Airports

Experience a World of Luxury: Qatar Airways Launches Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden

Published

4 months ago

24/04/2023

Mina Maher

Qatar Airways has recently revealed its latest addition to the lounge offerings at Doha’s Hamad International Airport – The Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden. Set in the newly expanded North section of the airport, this lounge boasts stunning views of the Orchard Garden and provides a one-of-a-kind experience for premium passengers. With a strong emphasis placed on natural beauty, comfort, wellness, and nature, this lounge is set to provide travelers with a luxurious and rejuvenating airport experience.

The Garden: A World-Class Lounge

The Garden, a section of the Al Mourjan Business Lounge, covers a vast area of 7,390 square meters and has the capacity to hold up to 707 passengers. Positioned in the heart of ‘The Orchard,’ an indoor green space that showcases more than 300 trees and 25,000 plants, the lounge is built to maximize natural light, making it a tranquil and refreshing spot for travelers to unwind before their flight. Qatar Airways’ elite customers can expect a luxurious travel experience featuring a wide range of dining and shopping choices.

Facilities at The Garden

To ensure passengers have a pleasant airport experience, the lounge is equipped with a comprehensive selection of essential and luxurious amenities. The spa facilities, fitness studio, nursery, relaxation, and quiet rooms, game room, and pedicure/manicure stations are all available for passengers to enjoy. The gym has a variety of workout equipment, such as treadmills and elliptical machines, while the spa has seven treatment rooms and automated massage chairs. The lounge’s dining options are equally impressive, with two dining areas situated in the East and West wings. Passengers can indulge in a diverse selection of hot and cold buffets, a coffee bar, and a cocktail station.

HIA’s Lounge Portfolio

HIA has a variety of airport lounges available to passengers, particularly those traveling on Qatar Airways’ premium services. The Al Safwa First Lounge is exclusively for Qatar and Oneworld first-class passengers, providing a distinct minimalist ambiance and is regarded as one of the world’s top lounges. In addition to The Garden’s counterpart lounge in the South area of HIA, elite passengers can choose from the Platinum, Gold, and Silver lounges located in the South or opt to visit the Al Maha or Orxy Lounges.

Qatar Airways’ Commitment to Excellence

Qatar Airways aims to continuously enhance its services to deliver the ultimate aviation and hospitality experiences to its passengers. The airline’s unwavering commitment to excellence is deeply ingrained in its brand, and The Garden is an excellent example of this dedication. The introduction of this exceptional lounge underscores Qatar Airways’ promise to provide travelers with a refined travel experience, prioritizing comfort, well-being, and nature.

Akbar Al Baker, the Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch of The Garden, saying, “We are thrilled to introduce our esteemed passengers to this magnificent addition to our signature lounge collection. Our newly opened Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden at Hamad International Airport will elevate our passengers’ travel experience to new heights.”

The Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden is a stunning addition to HIA’s elite lounge offerings. The lounge’s emphasis on natural beauty and wellness provides a unique experience for premium Qatar Airways passengers. With a wide range of luxury amenities and dining options, The Garden is an excellent space for travelers to relax and rejuvenate before their flight. Qatar Airways commitment to excellence is evident in the launch of The Garden, and the airline continues to set the standard for aviation and hospitality.

Also, you might be interested in reading: Qatar Airways Welcomes Its First Boeing 737 MAX

Sources

Source: Simple Flying

Airports

Flying High: Exploring Finland’s Top 5 Airports with the Longest Runways

Published

5 months ago

21/04/2023

Mina Maher

Finland’s unique geography and position as a strategic hub for air travel make it an important destination for travelers, military personnel, and cargo operators alike. With a growing demand for air travel, it’s vital to have airports with runways capable of handling a range of aircraft. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 Finnish airports with the longest runways, their histories, and their importance in connecting Finland to the world.

1. Helsinki Vantaa International Airport (HEL)

Helsinki Vantaa International Airport (HEL) holds the top position for having the longest runway in Finland, which is unsurprising given that it is the country’s largest airport. The airport boasts three runways, with the longest measuring an impressive 3,500 meters (11,483 ft). The second and third runways measure 3,060 meters (10,039 ft) and 2,901 meters (9,518 ft), respectively.

Established in 1952, HEL airport initially had only one runway, with the second added in 1956 to accommodate the growing demand for air travel. In 2002, the third runway was inaugurated, leading to increased capacity and more efficient operations. The airport serves as a crucial hub for Finnair and other airlines, connecting Finland to destinations across the globe.

2. Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)

Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) was constructed in 1940 and served as an airbase during the Continuation War, functioning as a supply hub for the German Luftwaffe. The airport has a single runway that measures 3,002 meters (9,849 ft) in length.

While RVN’s runway may not be capable of accommodating fully loaded Boeing 747-8 aircraft, it is capable of serving as a landing strip for an Airbus A380, which necessitates a minimum runway length of 3,000 meters. RVN airport serves as a gateway to the Lapland region, which is a famous tourist destination known for its winter sports and Northern Lights.

3. Kuopio Airport (KUO)

Kuopio Airport (KUO) is situated in northeastern Finland and ranks as the country’s fifth busiest airport, generating considerable profits. The airport has a single runway that measures 2,800 meters (9,186 ft) in length.

An interesting fact about KUO airport is that during its establishment in 1939 and throughout the Finnish-Soviet Continuation War, the runways were entirely constructed of plywood. However, they have been upgraded to asphalt, resulting in enhanced safety and efficiency. KUO airport is used by both the Finnish Air Force and commercial airlines, playing a vital role in connecting military and civilian operations.

4. Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP)

Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP), which was established in 1936, is one of Finland’s oldest airports, boasting one of the longest runways in the country. The airport has a single runway that measures 2,700 meters (8,858 ft) in length.

The runway was paved in 1958 and serves both commercial and military aircraft, making it a critical link for both civilian and military operations. Located in southern Finland, TMP airport serves as a gateway to the Tampere region, which is renowned for its cultural attractions and industrial heritage.

5. Kauhava Airport (KAU)

Kauhava Airport (KAU) was previously utilized for military activities until 2014 and currently holds the fifth position on the list of Finnish airports with the longest runways. The airport has a single runway that is 2,700 meters (8,858 ft) long.

Although KAU’s runway may not be suitable for accommodating fully loaded Airbus A380 or Boeing 747 aircraft, it can still serve as a landing strip for other types of planes, including turboprops and popular models such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. KAU airport is a crucial hub for both military and civilian activities in western Finland.

In conclusion, Finland’s airports with the longest runways play a crucial role in connecting the country to the world. With Helsinki Vantaa International Airport leading the pack, the other airports on this list provide important links for both civilian and military operations, as well as serving as gateways to some of Finland’s most popular regions. As air travel continues to grow, these airports will remain essential in connecting Finland to the rest of the world.

Also, you might be interested in reading: Which airports have the shortest runways?

Sources

Source: Simple Flying

Airports

Atlanta Airport Retains Title for Busiest Airport

Published

5 months ago

08/04/2023

Daniel Luo

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has once again been named the world’s busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic for the year 2022.

According to data published by The Airports Council International (ACI) this Wednesday, Atlanta leads the list of busiest airports by a large margin, with around 93 million passengers passing through the airport in 2022. That’s more than 256,711 passengers per day, on average, traveling through Atlanta. Following Atlanta is Dallas Fort Worth International Airport with around 73 million passengers in 2022.

Atlanta has held the number one spot for busiest airport for almost every year since 1998, coming in second only once in 2020 to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.

Source: Airports Council International — Credit: Airports Council International

Why is Atlanta the Busiest Airport?

Although Atlanta is not a significant tourist destination or an highly populated city, it still holds the title for the busiest airport due to 2 primary reasons:

The city’s geographical position in the Eastern part of the United States. Atlanta’s location enables it to be within a two-hour flight of 80% of the US population, making it an important connecting point between cities.

Atlanta’s role as the primary hub for Delta Airlines, which is headquartered in the city. The large majority of flights in Atlanta are from Delta Airlines.

Increasing Trend for Air Travel

The passenger traffic data from ACI for 2022 shows a recovering trend in air travel for Atlanta airport. All airports among the top 10 busiest had an increase in passenger traffic from the previous year, with Atlanta seeing a 23.8% increase; however all but 2 airports (Istanbul and Denver) among the top 10 fell short of their numbers from 2019. Nevertheless, Atlanta’s passenger volume has been increasing steadily since 2020 and is on track to return to its pre-pandemic levels from 2019.

Atlanta Airport Passengers:

2019: 110.5 million

2020: 42.9 million

2021: 75.7 million

2022: 93.7 million

2023: ?

Will passenger traffic during this year at ATL return or even surpass that of 2019? The Airports Council International believes that a full recovery in global passenger traffic won’t happen until 2024, however Atlanta could reach its pre-pandemic levels sooner.