On June 26, 1988, Air France Flight 296Q, an Airbus A320, was involved in a tragic incident during an air show at Mulhouse–Habsheim Airfield in France. The flight was scheduled to demonstrate the aircraft's capabilities before hundreds of spectators. As it approached the runway for a low-speed pass, the pilots misjudged their altitude, leading the aircraft to strike nearby trees before crashing into the terrain. Of the 136 people on board, three individuals tragically lost their lives. The aircraft was the first of its kind, bringing attention to the design and operational capabilities of the Airbus A320.The flight's purpose was to exhibit the Airbus A320’s advanced technology, particularly its fly-by-wire system. However, the tragic outcome raised critical questions about pilot training, safety protocols, and the potential vulnerabilities of new aircraft technology. Investigations following the crash revealed issues regarding adherence to guidelines, as the crew was performing a maneuver not authorized for public display, which highlighted the need for stricter regulations on flight demonstrations involving passenger aircraft.In the aftermath, the crash served as a pivotal point for aviation safety. The incident prompted revised training protocols for pilots of new technology, calling into question the balance between aircraft performance capabilities and operator skills. It also catalyzed discussions regarding the necessity for robust safety standards during public air displays, influencing international aviation regulations in the years that followed.