Ep 6. Munich Air Disaster

On February 6, 1958, British European Airways Flight 609 was carrying the Manchester United football team, along with their coaches, staff, and journalists, to Munich from Belgrade. They were returning from a successful European Cup match against Red Star Belgrade. However, they would never make it home as tragedy would strike just before takeoff from Munich-Riem Airport, shattering the dreams of the entire football world.

Mayday Season 11 Episode 6, titled "Munich Air Disaster," explores the events leading up to the fateful crash of Flight 609 and the subsequent investigation into what caused the tragedy. Using expert testimony, interviews with survivors and eyewitnesses, archive footage, and meticulous reconstructions, this gripping episode offers a comprehensive retelling of one of the most heartbreaking disasters in aviation history.

The episode begins by delving into the background of Manchester United and their journey to the 1958 European Cup. The team, known as the "Busby Babes" due to their young age, had enjoyed a string of victories and were looking forward to flying back to Manchester with the Cup. However, their homecoming would never happen.

As Flight 609 prepared to take off from Munich, the weather conditions were far from optimal. The team had initially attempted to leave Munich the day before but had failed to take off due to engine problems. This delay meant they had to schedule an early-morning takeoff on a treacherous and frosty day. Even though the runway had been cleared of snow, the plane's pilot, Captain James Thain, had concerns about the aircraft's ability to accelerate sufficiently and take off safely.

Despite his concerns, Captain Thain decided to proceed with takeoff. However, just 43 seconds into the flight, the left engine failed, causing the plane to veer to the left and smash through a fence before hitting a nearby house. The impact caused the plane to break apart, and several passengers were thrown from the wreckage. In total, 23 people died on the scene, while one more succumbed to their injuries days later.

Mayday Season 11 Episode 6 meticulously follows the investigation into the Munich Air Disaster, piecing together the evidence and theories of what went wrong on that tragic day. Aviation experts investigate the factors that contributed to the fatal crash, including complications with the plane's engines and the adverse weather conditions, and weigh in on whether the pilot's decision to proceed with take-off indeed played a role.

The episode also delves into the aftermath of the disaster, including the emotional impact on the families and friends of those who lost their lives. The episode highlights the outpouring of support from fans and the football community worldwide, with Manchester United receiving letters of condolence and support from teams around the globe.

Mayday Season 11 Episode 6, titled "Munich Air Disaster," is a somber and emotional tribute to the victims of this significant tragedy. This episode offers a respectful and insightful examination of what happened, helping to keep the memory of those who lost their lives alive for newer generations and football fans alike.