Pan Am Flight 816 was a passenger airline service that tragically crashed shortly after departure from Faa'a International Airport in Papeete, French Polynesia, due to a catastrophic failure of its left engine. The Boeing 707, carrying 85 passengers and crew, failed to gain adequate altitude, forcing the aircraft back towards the runway. Witnesses reported a loud explosion shortly after liftoff, and the aircraft subsequently plummeted into a heavily vegetated area just beyond the airport perimeter.

The investigation revealed that the accident was primarily caused by a combination of mechanical failure and issues related to the maintenance of the aircraft's engines. Additionally, it raised serious questions about the training and protocols followed by flight crews and maintenance teams. Rescue operations were hampered by difficult terrain and the remote location, prompting international efforts to support recovery operations. The aftermath of the crash led to increased scrutiny of airline safety standards and regulations, emphasizing the importance of thorough inspections and proper training for aviation personnel.

Following the disaster, there was a substantial impact on regulatory policies regarding aviation safety in the Pacific region. Various safety measures were proposed to prevent a similar magnitude of incidents, including enhanced training programs for pilots and maintenance crews, stricter adherence to operational protocols, and the development of better emergency response strategies. The event catalyzed discussions about the need for continued improvements in aviation technology and monitoring systems, contributing to the evolution of safety practices across the airline industry.