Flight 93

Definition

Flight 93 was a domestic passenger flight that was hijacked on September 11, 2001, as part of a coordinated terrorist attack by al-Qaeda. The passengers aboard the flight heroically attempted to regain control from the hijackers, ultimately leading to the plane crashing into a field in Pennsylvania instead of its intended target, believed to be either the U.S. Capitol or the White House. This event became a symbol of resistance and bravery during one of the darkest days in American history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flight 93 was scheduled to fly from Newark International Airport to San Francisco International Airport when it was hijacked by four terrorists.
2. Passengers on board Flight 93 learned about the other hijackings through phone calls and decided to act against the hijackers, leading to a struggle in the cockpit.
3. The plane crashed at approximately 10:03 AM in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers attempted to regain control from the hijackers.
4. The actions of the passengers are credited with preventing the hijackers from reaching their intended target, potentially saving many lives in Washington, D.C.
5. In honor of those on Flight 93, National Park Service established the Flight 93 National Memorial, which opened to the public in September 2015.

Review Questions

• What were the key actions taken by the passengers of Flight 93, and how did they impact the course of the events on September 11, 2001?
  • The passengers on Flight 93 took courageous actions by communicating with loved ones and learning about the other hijackings. Realizing their situation was dire, they decided to confront the hijackers, which resulted in a struggle for control over the plane. Their bravery led to the flight crashing in a remote field in Pennsylvania instead of its intended target, likely saving numerous lives in Washington, D.C.
• Analyze how Flight 93 became a symbol of resistance during the September 11 attacks and what it represents in American history.
  • Flight 93 has become a powerful symbol of resistance and courage as it showcases ordinary citizens standing up against terrorism. The actions taken by the passengers reflect not only their bravery but also a larger narrative of American resilience. This flight represents a turning point in how citizens view their role in confronting threats and has been commemorated through memorials that honor their sacrifice.
• Evaluate the significance of Flight 93 within the broader context of national security changes post-9/11 and its lasting impact on U.S. counterterrorism policy.
  • The events surrounding Flight 93 significantly influenced national security policies following September 11, as they highlighted vulnerabilities in aviation security and emergency response protocols. In response to these attacks, there was an immediate push for stronger security measures at airports and increased cooperation between intelligence agencies. The legacy of Flight 93 continues to shape U.S. counterterrorism strategies today, as it serves as a reminder of both the threat posed by terrorism and the potential for collective action by individuals in dire situations.

Related terms

September 11 Attacks: A series of coordinated terrorist attacks by al-Qaeda on September 11, 2001, which included the hijacking of four commercial airliners.

United Airlines: The airline operating Flight 93, one of the four flights hijacked during the 9/11 attacks.

National Memorial Flight 93: A memorial site in Pennsylvania dedicated to the passengers and crew who lost their lives aboard Flight 93, honoring their bravery and sacrifice.