1985 TWA Flight 847 Hijacking

Name: 1985 TWA Flight 847 Hijacking
Start: 1985-06-14
Location: Unspecified

The Infamous Hijacking of TWA Flight 847

In June 1985, the world was shocked by the hijacking of TWA Flight 847, a flight that would become one of the most notorious aviation incidents in history. The flight originated from Cairo, Egypt and was destined for San Diego, California, with a layover in Athens, Greece. On June 14, shortly after takeoff from Athens, a group of four Lebanese Shiite Muslim extremists seized control of the aircraft, taking 39 passengers hostage.

TWA Flight 847: A Tense Situation Unfolds

The hijackers, armed and desperate, began a terrifying game of cat-and-mouse. They flew the plane across the Mediterranean Sea and eventually diverted it to Beirut, Lebanon, where they made their demands known. The situation escalated over the following days as the hijackers struggled with their captives and insisted on the release of Lebanese prisoners. The almost agonizing 17-day ordeal captured the attention of the world, as news reports covered the hostages' plight extensively.

Impact on Aviation Security

The hijacking of TWA Flight 847 had profound implications for aviation security. It highlighted vulnerabilities and led to increased scrutiny and dramatic changes in airport and airline security measures worldwide. Procedures were overhauled in many countries, emphasizing the need for more thorough passenger screening and enhanced law enforcement coordination during international flights.

The Resolution and Its Aftermath

After 17 days of negotiations, the standoff came to a climax when most hostages were released; however, one American, Robert Stethem, was murdered. This tragic event only fueled tensions in the region and raised awareness about the complexities of Middle Eastern politics.

Consequences for the Hijackers

While the hijackers had initially laid out a clear set of demands, the fallout from the event was complicated. Various countries condemned the actions of the hijackers, and while some individuals were arrested later, the complexities of international law and politics meant that full accountability was elusive.

Long-term Effects of the Hijacking

The ramifications of TWA Flight 847 extended beyond its immediate aftermath. It served as a catalyst for changes within the aviation industry and a heightened understanding of how international terrorism operates. It remains a cautionary tale that emphasizes the ongoing struggle against extremism.

Fun Fact about TWA Flight 847

A Hostage's Perspective

One of the hostages, a passenger named Jennifer B. from California, wrote a book titled “Hostage to Terror: The True Story of TWA Flight 847”, where she shared her harrowing experiences and the enduring effects the ordeal had on her life.