Midwest Express Airlines Flight 105 was operating a scheduled flight from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport to New Orleans when tragedy struck on September 6, 1985. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-80, experienced a catastrophic failure shortly after becoming airborne. Reports indicate that the flight crew's efforts to regain control were unsuccessful, leading to a crash in a nearby field. The aircraft was completely destroyed upon impact, resulting in the loss of all 31 people on board, including both crew members and passengers. This event raised significant concerns regarding aircraft safety and maintenance practices at the time.

Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) began a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. They focused on the aircraft's control systems and maintenance history, tracing the incident back to a malfunction that compromised the flight's stability. The MD-80 series had been generally regarded for its safety, and the crash elicited public outcry over aviation regulations and standards. In light of the findings, recommendations were made to enhance operational safety and the reliability of maintenance procedures across the aviation industry.

This event became a pivotal moment in aviation safety history, emphasizing the necessity of thorough inspections and robust training for pilots and maintenance personnel. The lessons learned from Flight 105 influenced future regulations and the industry's approach to safety protocols, particularly for regional airlines, thus ensuring advancements in safety measures and an impact that resonates in contemporary aviation.