American Airlines Flight 625, a Douglas DC-8, encountered severe problems during its approach to Cyril E. King Airport in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. The flight, originating from Miami, was affected by challenging weather conditions, including high winds, which contributed to a catastrophic failure as the plane attempted to land. Witnesses described the aircraft struggling with its landing gear configuration, ultimately leading to its failure to maintain control and resulting in the crash.

The operational challenges during the landing included both pilot error and mechanical failures. Investigators later pointed to the impact of engine power loss and navigation difficulties amidst turbulent conditions. This information led to broader discussions on airline safety protocols and maintenance standards. Emergency response efforts were hampered by the remote location of the crash site, complicating rescue operations.

In the aftermath, the event brought about significant scrutiny into airline operational safety practices, particularly regarding how airlines prepare for adverse weather conditions and how pilots are trained to respond to in-flight emergencies. The findings not only affected American Airlines but also led to industry-wide reviews of flight protocols to enhance passenger safety across the board.