Why Planes Crash

Examining collisions between planes. Included: a corporate jet and a 737 collide above the Amazon; a DC-8 tears into the fuselage of a Lockheed Constellation above New York City; a 727 slams into a Cessna above San Diego.

Instances of on board fires are examined, including: Swissair Flight 111, Air France Flight 4590, ValuJet Flight 592 and Air Canada Flight 797.

Instances of human error that resulted in plane crashes are examined. Like: Colgan Air Flight 3407, American Airlines Flight 587, Eastern Air Lines Flight 401 and Avianca Flight 52.

A gripping look at how engines and structures have failed in flight, including how nine passengers were sucked out of a 747 when a cargo door exploded over the Pacific.

Exploring terrifying airplane disasters, beginning with a look at why pilots risk ditching in water, and a hijacked 767 that was forced into the ocean.

A look at three accidents and how they led to changes in the aviation industry.

Plane crashes that resulted from automation failures are spotlighted.

A look at helicopters highlights their uses for rescues and rapid responses, but also examines the unique set of dangers involved in their operation.

A look at terrible crashes that can result from planes veering off course or poor visibility.

Hazards posed to small planes, including bad weather, poor visibility and distractions, are examined.

The effects of storms, high winds and microbursts on planes are examined.

Plane-crash survivors recall their frightening experiences.

Season 2 begins with a look at cockpit communication and how it improved with the implementation of Crew Resource Management (CRM) in 1979.