Ep 12. 28 Seconds to Survive

On Mayday season 12, episode 12 titled "28 Seconds to Survive," viewers witness a harrowing tale of a passenger plane that faces a catastrophic moment in its journey. The episode documents the events of September 14, 1993, when Ukrainian Airlines Flight 375, a Yakovlev Yak-42, was on its way from Kiev to Kutaisi.

Flying at an altitude of 17,000 feet, the flight crew of three and their 28 passengers were preparing to make their descent when the aircraft suddenly flipped over and entered into a steep dive. It was a terrifying moment as Flight 375 had no time to recover and was just seconds away from crashing.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are shown the events leading up to the crash that claimed the lives of everyone on board. The investigation into the crash reveals a chain of events that ultimately led to the tragic incident.

Through interviews with industry experts, survivors, and family members of the victims, the episode portrays the impact of the crash on the people and their families. The episode also sheds light on the challenges faced by investigators as they pieced together the final moments of Flight 375.

One of the factors that contributed to the crash was the inexperience of the flight crew. The captain had recently been promoted and lacked the experience needed to safely navigate the flight. Additionally, the co-pilot was under significant stress due to personal issues, which may have affected his performance during the flight.

The maintenance of the aircraft also played a significant role in the crash. The aircraft had undergone extensive repairs just before the flight, including work on the engines. However, the repairs were not done correctly, and the engines failed mid-flight, causing the plane to lose power.

The episode details the challenges faced by air traffic control, as well. The Ukrainian authorities were ill-prepared to handle an air disaster of this magnitude and struggled to respond appropriately to the crash, delaying the recovery efforts.

In the end, the episode highlights the importance of proper training, maintenance, and oversight in aviation safety. The crash of Flight 375 was a tragic event that could have been prevented if proper procedures had been followed. Viewers are left with a sense of the importance of ensuring the safety of all air passengers and the significant responsibility held by those in the aviation industry.

Overall, Mayday season 12, episode 12 is a gripping and emotional retelling of the final moments of Ukrainian Airlines Flight 375. The episode offers a glimpse into the complex world of aviation safety and the impact of air disasters on the families and survivors.