Flash Airlines Flight 604 was a scheduled charter service from Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to Paris, France. On January 3, 2004, the Boeing 737-300, operating under the Egyptian airline Flash Airlines, experienced a catastrophic crash into the Red Sea shortly after takeoff. The aircraft took off at approximately 1:00 AM local time but lost contact a few minutes later. Tragically, the aircraft went down into the sea, resulting in the loss of all 148 people aboard, making it one of the most devastating incidents in Egyptian aviation history. The majority of those on board were French tourists returning home after a vacation in Egypt.

Investigators from the Egyptian government and the French Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA) launched a detailed investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary findings indicated that issues with the aircraft's technical systems, in conjunction with apparent pilot error, were critical. The investigation revealed that the aircraft had not been properly maintained and that essential checks had been overlooked. These revelations raised serious concerns regarding aviation safety protocols in the region, especially pertaining to aircraft operation and maintenance standards.

The incident sparked significant international media coverage and discussions surrounding the safety measures practiced by Egyptian airlines. As a result, the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority undertook reforms aimed at enhancing the oversight of commercial aviation operations. Flash Airlines itself faced increased scrutiny, and ultimately the airline ceased operations following the tragedy and subsequent investigations, marking a pivotal moment for aviation safety regulation in Egypt and the region.