Viasa Flight 897 was a scheduled international flight operated by the Venezuelan airline Viasa. On the day of the incident, the Douglas DC-8 was scheduled to fly from Lisbon, Portugal, to Caracas, Venezuela. The aircraft took off from Lisbon Airport but faced serious complications shortly after departure. Witnesses reported seeing smoke and flames trailing from the plane, indicating that something was severely wrong. Despite attempts to return to the airport, the aircraft crashed into a nearby residential area, resulting in the loss of all 61 people on board, including passengers and crew members.

In the aftermath of the incident, a thorough investigation was conducted by both Portuguese authorities and the airline. The inquiry sought to determine the root causes of the crash, examining both technical failures and human factors in the operation of the flight. Early reports indicated potential mechanical issues with the aircraft, and the investigation centered around air traffic control practices and maintenance records of Viasa planes. Recommendations were made regarding airline safety protocols and regulatory measures to prevent similar tragedies.

The accident shocked the international aviation community, prompting discussions about aircraft safety standards and crew training. This disaster contributed to legislative changes in aviation regulations, aiming to enhance safety protocols for airlines, especially those serving international routes. The loss of life and subsequent investigations highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring and improvement in airline operations and regulations, a matter paramount to public confidence in air travel.