Ten years after the tragedy: ARD documentary about the Germanwings crash

Ten years after the tragedy: ARD documentary about the Germanwings crash

On March 24, 2025, the crash of Germanwings flight 4U9525, which took place in the Alps almost ten years ago, marked the tenth time. This tragic event is considered the greatest disaster in the history of German aviation. The incident ended with the death of 149 people, including 144 passengers and five crew members, as well as the co-pilot Andreas Lubitz, who deliberately brought about the crash. Investigators are convinced that Lubitz suffered from severe depression during the flight, which led to this decision. A comprehensive report by Radio Herford deals in detail with this tragic incident and the upcoming anniversary.

For the relatives of the victims, memory remains painful. In memory of the catastrophe, ARD produces a elaborate four -piece that illuminates the stories of the bereaved. In this documentation, the filmmaker Justine Rosenkranz offers a look at the emotional experiences associated with the loss. The film lets the families concerned have their say and documents personal memories, such as a last WhatsApp message from a daughter. Also explanations of wives to their children can find space in this moving story.

The background of the accident

Andreas Lubitz had apparently hidden his mental illness from his employer and his colleague. A search of his apartment revealed medical documents that indicate treatment for depression. In the event of further investigations, it was found that on the day of the crash he had left a torn sick leave in his apartment. His doctors had released him from work because he was in psychiatric treatment. Nevertheless, Lubitz had passed all the necessary medical exams and was considered to be suitable for flying in 2013 for Germanwings, as Time reported.

The investigators did not find a suicide note in Lubitz ’apartment during their research, but indications of his mental illness. During his pilot training, Lubitz already took a break that may have been connected to mental problems or psychological exhaustion. Lufthansa’s CEO explained that such breaks are not unusual for pilots. Nevertheless, the exact reason for Lubitz ’behavior on the day of the flight remains unclear what the investigation is complicated.

the ARD documentation and its meaning

The ARD documentary is part of the monthly "Crime Time" series and combines emotional interviews with recessed scenes of the investigative work. The calm narrative style of the film leaves the protagonist space to share their stories. The use of notes of the copilot, which document his depression and thoughts of suicide, raises deeper questions about safety in the cockpit and possible system failure. Justine Rosenkranz has had regular contact with some survivors since the catastrophe, which also makes their film authentic.

All four episodes of the documentation are already available in the ARD media library, but a broadcast date on linear television is still pending. The ARD not only wants to commemorate the victims, but also to initiate important discussions about mental health in aviation, which are back on the agenda due to this tragedy.