Introduction

The crash of Windsor Airlines Flight 114, as depicted in the film Die Hard 2: Die Harder, presents an intriguing yet highly dramatized portrayal of an aviation emergency. While the film touches upon several realistic scenarios, it significantly exaggerates specific elements for dramatic effect. This article aims to explore whether the crash scenario is a realistic representation and to delve into the actual procedures and realities surrounding such aviation emergencies.

Realistic Elements in the Film

The depiction of bad weather affecting flight operations is realistic. Severe weather can indeed lead to flight cancellations or disruptions. However, the specific scenario involving a hijacking of the airport’s control systems and subsequent chaos is largely fictional. Through this article, we will analyze the realistic and unrealistic aspects of the film to provide a balanced perspective.

Weather and Flight Operations

The scenario in the film shows the plane being unable to land due to a snowstorm. This is a plausible situation in the aviation world, where adverse weather can lead to flight delays or cancellations. However, the subsequent dialogue and actions of the control tower in the movie stretch the boundaries of reality.

ATC and Pilot Interaction

Air traffic control (ATC) is a hierarchical and layered system. If one airport is unable to handle a flight due to any reason, the next sector or control center takes over the operation. In the film, this is not accurately portrayed, as ATC doesn’t behave as a single entity but rather a network of coordinated efforts.

Furthermore, pilots do not blindly follow ATC instructions. There is a contract, known as the "clearance," where the pilot and controller exchange information and agree on the course of action. This ensures that the pilots are the final authority for the aircraft. The idea that ATC dictates and the pilots obey is an oversimplification and not entirely accurate.

Technological and Operational Realities

The portrayal of technical issues such as incorrect altimeter settings and hijacking control systems is highly exaggerated. Real-world scenarios are far more nuanced and involve multiple layers of redundancy and safety measures.

Altimeter Settings

The altimeter is a crucial instrument that measures altitude relative to a specific pressure setting. In reality, controllers constantly monitor and update altimeter settings to avoid discrepancies. If the altimeter setting is incorrect, pilots would quickly notice the anomaly and cross-reference it with other instruments. Radar altimeters further enhance safety by measuring altitude above the ground, providing a more accurate picture of the aircraft's position.

Irrational Hijacking Scenario

The concept of hijacking the control system and rerouting flights is a far-fetched idea. In reality, such a situation is extremely unlikely and would be immediately identified and corrected. Controllers would notice any unusual behavior and take corrective measures. The idea that a single individual could manipulate the entire airport’s control system with little resistance is not realistic.

Conclusion

While the film Die Hard 2: Die Harder showcases some elements of aviation safety and emergencies, it strays from strict realism for dramatic effect. The portrayal of ATC and pilot interactions, as well as technical issues, is exaggerated and does not accurately reflect the real-world complexities involved in air traffic control and emergency situations.

It's important to remember that aviation safety involves multiple layers of redundancy and protocols to ensure safety and efficiency. The film should be viewed as a fictionalized dramatization rather than a realistic portrayal of emergency situations in the aviation industry.