TAP Air Portugal Flight 425 was a scheduled passenger flight traveling from Lisbon to Funchal, the capital of Madeira, on a McDonnell Douglas DC-8. The aircraft, carrying 164 people, faced adverse weather conditions as it approached Madeira’s mountainous terrain. The crew attempted to approach the Funchal Airport, known for its challenging landing strip. Despite multiple attempts to navigate the unstable weather, the aircraft tragically crashed into a hillside near the airport location. This event occurred on November 19, 1977, leading to frantic rescue operations to recover the bodies of those aboard.

The entire onboard population consisted of 148 passengers and a crew of 16. Despite immediate rescue efforts by local authorities and military personnel, 131 lives were lost, making it one of the deadliest accidents in the history of Portuguese aviation. Investigators later determined that poor visibility due to thick fog contributed significantly to the pilots' inability to navigate on approach safely. This incident highlighted the need for better pilot training and advanced navigational technology in complex airport approaches.

In the aftermath of the crash, modifications in the design of Funchal Airport were implemented, and enhanced safety measures were adopted for future flights. The tragedy became a catalyst for changes in aviation regulations in Portugal and internationally, particularly regarding approach procedures for airports located in challenging terrain.