Ten Years After the Germanwings Crash: Tribute and Lessons from a Tragedy

On March 24, 2015, a Germanwings Airbus A320 deliberately crashed into a mountain in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, caused by its co-pilot, Andreas Lubitz. There were 150 people on board, none of whom survived. A decade later, families and loved ones gathered at the site of the tragedy for a commemoration, their pain still fresh and their confusion unchanged.

In the morning, nearly 360 people gathered at the Mariaud pass, where a memorial stone honors the victims. Engelbert Tegethoff, whose daughter, a teacher, perished in the crash, shared: _”Even after all these years, it feels like it happened yesterday.” _For many, this annual gathering has become essential to their grieving process, creating a lasting bond between the families.

The authorities also paid their respects. Flowers were laid at the Vernet cemetery, a symbolic gesture that reminds us of the global shock caused by the disaster. “The emotion is still as strong, and time has not erased the pain,” said the prefect of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.

A Tragedy That Changed Aviation Rules

The investigation revealed that the co-pilot, suffering from psychological issues, locked himself alone in the cockpit, preventing the captain from regaining control. In response to this critical flaw, several reforms were introduced.

Firstly, a rule requiring two people to be present in the cockpit at all times was established but later abandoned due to its ineffectiveness. However, the medical oversight of pilots was significantly strengthened, with more frequent psychiatric evaluations and better management of training interruptions.

A debate remains over the confidentiality of medical records. Andreas Lubitz had consulted several doctors without informing his employer. Should medical confidentiality be lifted to prevent a similar tragedy from occurring again? The question remains divisive, with some fearing that pilots would stop seeking medical help for fear of penalties.

Ten years later, the Germanwings crash remains a turning point in aviation history. While measures have been implemented, managing pilots’ mental health remains a crucial challenge to ensure flight safety.