The number of people who lost their lives in the deadliest aviation disaster in history is 583.
On the 27th of March 1977, a Pan Am Boeing 747 from the USA and a KLM 747 from Amsterdam collided on the runway at Los Rodeos Airport on the Spanish island of Tenerife. In unanticipated and pressurised circumstances a series of events, decisions and conversations contributed to the crash with catastrophic consequences.
In this hard-hitting dramatisation we investigate events leading up to the disaster, including the proximal causes of the collision on the runway. We examine system failings and how human factors and biases contributed, including the role of pressure, and changing circumstances. We also focus on the relationship between the KLM Captain and his co-pilot, highlighting the influence of established patterns of behaviour and power.
Delivered by a team of five, this multimedia programme brings to life the facts of the incident, highlighting the role of leadership.