Asiana Airlines Flight 214 Crash on July 6, 2013

On July 6, 2013, Asiana Airlines Flight 214, a Boeing 777-200ER, crashed while attempting to land at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). This tragic event resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries among the 307 passengers and crew on board.

Background

• Flight Details: The flight originated from Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, and was bound for San Francisco, California.
• Aircraft: The aircraft involved was a Boeing 777-200ER, a long-range, wide-body twin-engine jet airliner known for its safety and reliability.

The Crash

• Landing Attempt: As the aircraft approached runway 28L at SFO, it was flying below the recommended glide path. The tail of the plane struck the seawall at the runway’s edge.
• Impact: The impact caused the tail section to separate from the fuselage, leading to a loss of control. The aircraft spun and skidded along the runway before coming to a stop.
• Immediate Aftermath: The crash resulted in a fire, which was quickly contained by emergency responders. The evacuation of passengers and crew was initiated promptly.

Casualties and Injuries

• Fatalities: Three passengers lost their lives. Two died at the scene, and a third succumbed to injuries later.
• Injuries: Over 180 individuals sustained injuries, ranging from minor to critical. The injuries included spinal fractures, head trauma, and burns.

Investigation and Findings

• Investigating Body: The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) conducted a thorough investigation into the crash.
• Key Findings:
  • Pilot Error: The NTSB concluded that the crash was primarily due to pilot error. The pilots failed to maintain a proper approach speed and did not execute a timely go-around.
  • Autothrottle Issues: The investigation also highlighted issues with the autothrottle system, which was not properly engaged to maintain the necessary airspeed.
  • Training and Communication: The report pointed to deficiencies in pilot training and cockpit communication as contributing factors.

Aftermath and Impact

• Safety Improvements: The crash prompted a reevaluation of pilot training programs, particularly concerning manual flying skills and the use of automated systems.
• Regulatory Changes: The incident led to increased scrutiny of airline safety protocols and the implementation of more rigorous training standards for pilots.
• Legacy: The crash of Asiana Airlines Flight 214 served as a stark reminder of the importance of pilot proficiency and the need for continuous improvement in aviation safety practices.

This tragic event underscored the complexities of modern aviation and the critical role of human factors in ensuring flight safety.