TAM Flight 402: 30 years since the Fokker 100 crash in São Paulo

The 30th anniversary of the TAM Flight 402 accident, which occurred on October 31, 1996, marks a significant milestone in Brazilian aviation history. The Fokker 100 aircraft, traveling from Congonhas Airport to Rio de Janeiro, crashed just 24 seconds after takeoff, resulting in 99 deaths: 96 people on board and three on the ground.

Investigations by Cenipa concluded that the tragedy was caused by the inadvertent deployment of the right engine's thrust reverser during takeoff. This mechanical failure, combined with design flaws in the electrical locking system and a broken safety cable, created an asymmetry of force that prevented the crew from maintaining altitude. The lack of clear cockpit alerts further complicated the crew's response.

The disaster led to profound changes in aviation safety and passenger rights. The creation of Abrapavaa, led by Sandra Assali, a widow of one of the victims, helped mandate that airlines provide immediate humanitarian and psychological support to families following accidents. Additionally, the accident prompted 34 safety recommendations, including mandatory simulator training for reverser malfunctions and restrictions on emergency maneuvers below certain altitudes.