Spanair Flight 5022, operated by the airline Spanair, was a scheduled passenger flight from Madrid to Gran Canaria. On its ill-fated takeoff from Madrid-Barajas Airport, the McDonnell Douglas MD-82 encountered catastrophic engine failure. Preliminary investigations revealed that the plane had failed to extend its flaps and slats during takeoff, a crucial step for safe ascent. This oversight led to insufficient lift, which ultimately caused the plane to skid off the runway and crash, resulting in a severe loss of life.

The flight was carrying 162 passengers and 10 crew members when the incident occurred. Emergency response teams quickly mobilized, but the tragic outcome resulted in 146 immediate fatalities, with an additional eight passengers dying from their injuries in the weeks following the crash. This incident marked a significant tragedy in Spanish aviation history and raised urgent questions regarding operational protocols and air safety regulations.

In the aftermath, investigations led by Spain's Civil Aviation Accident Investigation Commission highlighted a range of issues including poor pilot training, inadequate maintenance checks, and failure to adhere to safety protocols. The crash prompted a re-evaluation of aviation safety regulations in Spain and called attention to the importance of cockpit resource management and training, sparking changes in procedures to ensure the safe operation of aircraft.