Alitalia Flight 1553 was a scheduled domestic flight operating between Milan and Genoa. On approach to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, the flight encountered challenging weather, including thick fog and low visibility. Attempts to land were complicated by the conditions, leading to a failed landing approach. The aircraft, an ATR 72, was carrying 37 people at the time. In an ill-fated decision, the crew attempted to return to the runway amid worsening weather conditions. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft crash-landed and caught fire, resulting in the loss of four lives, with the majority of passengers surviving the crash.

The aircraft's crash led to an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities explored various factors, including the decision-making processes of the flight crew and the operational protocols involved in landing during adverse weather. Reports highlighted that the flight crew's actions and the air traffic control guidance contributed to the complications faced during the landing attempt. Acknowledging the role of weather conditions in the tragedy, the investigation prompted discussions on improving safety protocols and pilot training concerning adverse weather landings.

The aftermath of the crash spurred changes in the aviation sector, particularly as it related to safety measures when operating in low-visibility settings. The loss of life raised public concern regarding airline safety and regulatory oversight within the Italian aviation industry. It also underscored the need for better communication between pilots and air traffic control, especially during critical landing phases. As a result, the incident became a pivotal case study in aviation safety discussions in Europe and beyond.