Voices of the Crash
Final words recorded by cockpit voice recorders and air traffic control, shared with respect for those on board.
US Airways 1549 (2009)
“We're gonna be in the Hudson.”
Both engines lost to a bird strike. All 155 people survived the river landing.
Open case file →United 232 (1989)
“You want to be particular and make it a runway, huh?”
With no hydraulics, the crew steered using engine thrust alone. 184 of 296 survived.
Open case file →Japan Airlines 123 (1985)
“This may be hopeless.”
The rear pressure bulkhead failed and the crew fought for 32 minutes without hydraulics.
Open case file →Pan Am 1736 at Tenerife (1977)
“Goddamn, that son-of-a-bitch is coming!”
KLM 4805 began its takeoff roll without clearance in fog.
Open case file →Air France 447 (2009)
“We're going to crash! This can't be true.”
The aircraft stayed stalled for over three minutes as it fell into the Atlantic.
Open case file →Malaysia Airlines 370 (2014)
“Good night, Malaysian three seven zero.”
Minutes later the transponder went silent. The aircraft has never been found.
Open case file →