Swiss Pilots’ Final Words: A Chilling Tradition Before Crashes

A recent revelation highlights a chilling tradition among Swiss pilots: the use of two specific words before a plane crash. According to pilot and economist Richard Paul, these haunting words serve as a grim farewell in the face of disaster. This information was shared in a post on Quora, where Paul discussed the informal cultural agreement among Swiss aviators.

The phrase that is said to be uttered is “Goodbye everybody.” Paul notes that this expression is used by Swiss pilots shortly before a crash, emphasizing its significance in their aviation culture. He further explains that this practice is not merely a folklore but has historical roots, referencing the tragic Swissair SR 330 crash on February 21, 1970.

The Swissair Tragedy

The Swissair flight, which was en route from Zürich to Tel Aviv, met a catastrophic end due to a terrorist bomb detonation on board. Just before the crisis unfolded, Captain Karl Berlinger reportedly communicated his final words to the control tower at 1:34 pm. This message was captured before the flight was lost, along with all 47 individuals on board, including 38 passengers and nine crew members.

Reports from the time confirm that the bomb caused smoke to fill the cabin, making an emergency landing impossible. The tragedy remains a stark reminder of the potential dangers in aviation and the realities pilots face.

A Glimpse of Lightheartedness

In a contrasting moment, a recent incident captured by Google Maps showed a pilot waving from the cockpit of a stationary plane. This lighthearted exchange appears to have been an attempt to catch the attention of a Google Maps car outside. Fortunately, this scene unfolded without any risk, showcasing a more playful side of aviation amidst the serious undertones of pilot traditions.

The juxtaposition of these events highlights the dual nature of aviation—where moments of joy can coexist with the gravity of responsibility. As pilots continue to navigate the skies, traditions and protocols remain vital in ensuring safety and honoring the memories of those lost in tragic events.