SAS Flight 751 Miracle Landing
When both engines failed after ingesting ice, the pilots performed an impossible emergency landing in a field. All 129 passengers survived what became known as the Miracle at Gottröra.
On December 27, 1991, SAS Flight 751 lost both engines shortly after takeoff from Stockholm due to ice ingestion. What followed was an extraordinary emergency landing in a snow-covered field that saved all 129 people aboard, defying the odds in what many consider a miraculous outcome.
The Flight
SAS Flight 751 was a scheduled flight from Stockholm to Warsaw, utilizing an MD-81 aircraft. The flight carried 129 passengers and crew, departing on a winter morning. It was a routine departure, commencing operations from Stockholm Arlanda Airport.
The Takeoff
The event occurred on December 27, 1991, at 8:47 AM from Stockholm Arlanda. Clear ice had formed on the wings of the aircraft, and ground crew had performed de-icing procedures prior to departure. Initially, the takeoff appeared normal and uneventful.
The Problem
Unbeknownst to the flight crew, a significant amount of clear ice remained adhered to the wing surfaces, particularly near the engine intakes. This ice was prone to breaking loose during the aircraft’s rotation and ascent, presenting a serious hazard.
Engine Failure
During the climb, both engines simultaneously ingested the ice, resulting in compressor stalls and a drastic loss of thrust. The aircraft experienced violent shaking, prompting the crew to immediately declare an emergency.
The Pilots
Captain Stefan Rasmussen was an experienced pilot who quickly assessed the situation. He determined that no power was available and that an immediate landing was the only viable option. His swift and decisive split-second decisions were crucial to the survival of the passengers and crew.
First Officer
Ulf Cedermark assisted the captain by immediately calling a mayday and coordinating efforts with the captain. His professional response and teamwork contributed significantly to the successful outcome of the emergency landing, demonstrating a true team effort.
The Situation
The situation presented an incredibly challenging scenario: both engines failed simultaneously at a low altitude, with the aircraft passing over dense forest terrain and lacking any nearby airports. The crew had only seconds to decide on a course of action.
The Decision
Captain Rasmussen made the critical decision to steer the aircraft toward an open field ahead, recognizing it as the only viable option. He chose to forego engine restart and initiate a glide-to-landing maneuver, understanding that it represented a high-stakes, all-or-nothing approach.
The Approach
The aircraft descended rapidly, employing a controlled glide to line up with the open field. The landing gear was deployed, and flaps were extended to manage the aircraft’s speed and descent rate.
The Landing
The aircraft touched down hard in the field, initially impacting the trees. The aircraft subsequently broke up into three sections, sliding through the deep snow cover.
The Breakup
The tail section, mid-section, and nose section of the aircraft separated during the impact. These sections absorbed a significant amount of energy, effectively contributing to the survival of all 129 people aboard.
Survival
Remarkably, all 129 passengers and crew survived the ordeal, although many sustained serious injuries. Despite the severity of the crash, no fatalities occurred, a truly astounding and miraculous outcome.
Emergency Response
Rescuers arrived at the scene quickly and efficiently. Passengers were evacuated from the wreckage, and medical treatment was immediately administered. The coordinated rescue efforts demonstrated professional handling and a well-organized response.
Injury Assessment
Of the 129 people aboard the aircraft, 92 sustained injuries. Many of these injuries were minor, while others were more serious. Importantly, none of the injuries resulted in fatalities, highlighting the incredible luck and the effectiveness of the emergency response.
The Investigation
Swedish authorities thoroughly examined the wreckage, interviewed the flight crew, and analyzed extensive data. This investigation ultimately determined that the primary cause of the incident was the ingestion of clear ice into the engine intakes.
Design Changes
Following the investigation, several design changes were implemented. These included modifications to the engine designs and improvements to de-icing procedures. The incident also spurred industry-wide changes aimed at enhancing aviation safety and learning valuable lessons.
Hero Pilots
Captain Rasmussen and First Officer Ulf Cedermark were widely praised for their exceptional skill and bravery. They are rightfully considered national heroes, having successfully saved all lives aboard the aircraft. Their contributions deserved significant recognition.
Why Miracle?
The incident is often referred to as a “miracle” due to the confluence of incredibly challenging circumstances: dual engine failure at a low altitude over forest terrain, resulting in zero fatalities. Statistically, such an outcome is virtually impossible.
Engineering Factor
Interestingly, the breakup of the aircraft actually aided in the survival of the passengers and crew. The energy absorption by the separated sections, combined with the controlled failure of the aircraft’s structure, proved to be a fortunate design feature.
Snow Cushion
The snow covering the field provided a crucial “cushion” during the landing. The soft snow significantly reduced friction and absorbed a considerable amount of energy, further contributing to the successful outcome. This winter advantage was undoubtedly a significant factor.
Media Coverage
The story spread rapidly throughout the world, captivating the public with tales of survival and pilot heroism. Aviation media recognized the event as a significant milestone, generating widespread public fascination.
Documentary
The event was extensively documented, including a detailed air crash investigation and its use as a training material for pilots and aviation professionals. The story of SAS Flight 751 was preserved as a compelling aviation history.
Significance
Gottröra is significant due to the remarkable dual engine survival, the absence of fatalities, the display of pilot skill, and the subsequent safety improvements implemented as a direct result of the incident.
Legacy
The Miracle at Gottröra stands as one of aviation’s most remarkable survival stories, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of skilled pilots and effective aircraft design. The combination of these factors created an outcome that defied probability and saved every life aboard.