Mayday: The Accident Files

Mistaken identity and hostile fire over enemy territory are among the many risks that pilots face in war zones around the world.

In a rush to complete their flights, three different flight crews skip key procedures, ignore signs of danger, and make deadly decisions.

From corrosion and metal fatigue to faulty repairs, three doomed airlines are brought down by gradually deteriorating parts.

From pilot error to meltdowns within air traffic control, investigators dig deep into three mid-air collisions that seem to defy logic.

With zero margin for error, three catastrophes are narrowly averted by pilots who manage to land their damaged planes—against all odds.

Pilots are prepared to cope with a range of emergency scenarios, but failures in training can lead to catastrophe in the cockpit.

With hidden flaws buried in their navigation systems, three planes suffer catastrophic computer errors that force investigators to dig deep for clues.

Three planes fall prey to deadly winds, and it’s up to investigators to find out why.

From delusional hijackers to suicidal pilots, three flights fall victim to astonishing acts of sabotage.