The unlikely-sounding TV first, called Plane Crash, was part of the new season unveiled by Channel 4 today. Two former US navy pilots will parachute from the plane after setting it on autopilot to crash in a desert. In case of system failure, there will be remote controls in a helicopter and on the ground.

Footage of the crash and data from the plane would provide insights into what happens when a plane crashes, according to the producer, enabling experts to study how areas such as seatbelt design, seat arrangement and overhead baggage can have an impact on passenger safety.

Channel 4 refused to reveal when the plane would crash or on which continent, but said it was working with local environment agencies to ensure a proper clean-up.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2009...l-4-new-season