An Alitalia airliner, designated Flight AZ 402, took off from Shannon Airport en route to New York. Shortly after leaving the ground, the aircraft encountered severe difficulties, losing altitude rapidly due to malfunctions. The pilots struggled to regain control but the plane ultimately crashed into a cemetery located near the airport. The unfortunate incident resulted in the tragic loss of 34 lives, while 18 passengers and crew managed to survive. The crash site, which involved the destructive impact on the cemetery, drew considerable media attention both locally and internationally.

The investigation that followed highlighted significant issues concerning aircraft maintenance, pilot training, and airport security protocols. Findings revealed that the aircraft had multiple technical problems prior to takeoff, which had gone unreported and unfixed. This prompted regulatory bodies to reassess safety measures surrounding commercial aviation, leading to improved standards in aircraft maintenance and more rigorous pilot training programs.

Moreover, the crash underscored broader concerns about air travel safety during the late 1950s, a time when aviation was becoming increasingly popular. Although air travel was still seen as a relatively safe mode of transport, accidents like this one prompted public scrutiny and called for more stringent regulations to protect passengers. In the wake of the accident, Alitalia and other airlines faced increased pressure to enhance safety measures to rebuild public confidence.