The Munich air disaster occurred on 6 February 1958, when British European Airways Flight 609 crashed on its third attempt to take off at Munich-Riem Airport in Munich, West Germany. The aircraft was carrying the Manchester United football team, nicknamed the "Busby Babes", along with supporters and journalists. There were 44 people on board, 23 of whom died at the scene. The injured, some unconscious, were taken to Munich's Rechts der Isar Hospital, where three more died, resulting in 23 fatalities with 21 survivors.
The disaster was caused by a combination of factors, including the slushy condition of the runway, the aircraft's heavy load, and the pilot's decision to take off after two aborted attempts. The aircraft failed to gain sufficient speed to take off and crashed into a house at the end of the runway.
The Munich air disaster was a devastating blow to Manchester United and to the world of football. Eight Busby Babes players, including Duncan Edwards, who was widely regarded as one of the most promising young players in the world, were killed in the crash. The disaster also claimed the lives of three members of the club's staff and 15 other passengers.
The Munich air disaster had a profound impact on the club and its supporters. Manchester United was forced to rebuild its team from scratch, but under the guidance of manager Matt Busby, the club went on to win the European Cup in 1968, ten years after the disaster.
The Munich air disaster is a tragedy that will never be forgotten. It was a dark day in the history of Manchester United and of football as a whole. But it is also a story of resilience and determination, as the club and its supporters rebuilt from the ashes of disaster to achieve further success.
Here is a list of the 23 people who died in the Munich air disaster:
May the victims of the Munich air disaster rest in peace.