In May 2016, EgyptAir flight MS804, an Airbus A320, crashed into the Mediterranean Sea, killing all 66 people on board. The tragic incident caused shock around the world and raised many questions due to the mysterious circumstances surrounding it.
Initially, Egyptian officials declared the accident an act of terrorism. However, subsequent investigation revealed a much more shocking truth. According to French experts, the real cause of the disaster was a fire that broke out in the cockpit.
The investigation determined that the fire was caused by an oxygen leak from the co-pilot’s oxygen mask while he was smoking. The oxygen came into contact with the cigarette embers, causing a fire.
The investigation report also revealed that the co-pilot’s oxygen mask had been replaced just three days before the plane crashed. The driver had accidentally put the mask in “emergency” mode, causing it to leak more oxygen than normal.
Additionally, the smoking habits of Egyptian pilots of the time also contributed to the tragedy. According to the report, smoking in the cockpit was a common practice among Egyptian pilots at the time.
Coupled with fatigue due to an excessive flight schedule, the pilots may have lost concentration while enduring the emergency, leading to disastrous consequences.
The crash of EgyptAir MS804 serves as a stark reminder of the importance of aviation safety. Strict compliance with safety regulations, eliminating dangerous habits, and effective pilot training are crucial factors in preventing similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
