Photo by Juha Ritaranta

2002 – Luxair Flight 9642, a Fokker 50 (registered LX-LGB) crashed on approach to Luxenbourg-Findel Airport, killing 20 of the 22 onboard. After executing a go-around, the aircraft’s propeller blades were accidentally switched into the reverse position, causing them to fall 6 miles short of the runway.

1986 – A Boeing 234LR Chinook helicopter operated by British International Helicopters crashed on approach to Sumburgh Airport, Shetland Islands killing 45 people. The helicopter experienced a forward transmission failure, causing the twin rotor-blades to collide, sending the aircraft to nosedive 150 feet into the sea.

1945 – The first jet landing on an aircraft carrier takes place by a Ryan FR-1, piloted by U.S. Navy Ensign Jake West.

1915 – The first catapult launching of an airplane from a moving ship is made from the USS North Carolina in Pensacola, Florida.

For more carrier action…