16 years ago today Singapore Airlines Boeing 747-412, 9V-SPK on Flight 006 SIN-LAX crashed on take off after a scheduled stop in Taipei.
The aircraft attempted takeoff on runway 05R, (which had been closed for repairs) instead of the assigned runway 05L. The captain correctly heard that he needed to take off at 05L, but turned too soon and lined up with 05R. This will prove to be a catastrophic mistake.
The aircraft collided with plant machinery and broke into pieces. The fuselage was torn in two, and the engines and landing gear separated. A crane tore the left wing from the aircraft, forcing the jet back onto the ground, the nose struck a scoop loader and a large fire followed,
There were a total passengers of 159 plus Crew of 20.
Injuries, (non-fatal) 71 (not including the 2 passengers who died in hospital). Fatalities 85 (including 2 in hospital). Survivors 94.
