tom burnett flight 83,Tom Burnett Flight 83: A Tragic Day in Aviation History

Tom Burnett Flight 83: A Tragic Day in Aviation History

On September 11, 2001, the world witnessed one of the darkest days in aviation history. Among the four flights hijacked by terrorists that day, Tom Burnett Flight 83 played a significant role. This article delves into the details of the flight, the passengers, and the heroic actions that unfolded during the tragic event.

The Hijacking of Flight 83

Tom Burnett Flight 83, operated by United Airlines, was en route from Newark, New Jersey, to San Francisco, California. The flight took off at 8:14 AM and was scheduled to arrive at its destination at 11:14 AM. However, the peaceful journey took a dark turn when four hijackers took control of the flight.

The hijackers, who were all from the Middle East, communicated with the ground crew and passengers, demanding that the flight be rerouted to Washington, D.C. The passengers and crew were instructed to remain seated and to follow the hijackers’ instructions.

The Heroic Actions of Tom Burnett

Among the passengers on Flight 83 was Tom Burnett, a 38-year-old businessman from Minnesota. Tom, along with other passengers and crew members, realized that the hijackers had no intention of landing the plane safely. Determined to prevent further loss of life, Tom took action.

Tom Burnett, along with passengers Todd Beamer and David Frankowski, and flight attendants Betty Ong and Louis J. Nacke II, formed a group known as the “Passenger Flight Attendant Team.” They communicated with passengers via the plane’s public address system, urging them to resist the hijackers.

According to reports, Tom Burnett and the others shouted “Let’s roll!” as they charged the cockpit. The hijackers, realizing the passengers’ intentions, shot and killed Tom Burnett and David Frankowski. However, their actions delayed the hijackers’ plans, allowing the passengers and crew to overpower the remaining hijackers.

The Crash of Flight 93

After the heroic actions of the passengers and crew, the hijackers lost control of Flight 93. The plane crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, at 10:03 AM. All 44 passengers, 5 crew members, and 4 hijackers were killed in the crash.

The Legacy of Tom Burnett

Tom Burnett’s bravery and sacrifice have left an indelible mark on history. His actions, along with those of the other passengers and crew members, have been celebrated as a testament to the resilience and courage of the human spirit. Tom Burnett’s legacy continues to inspire people worldwide, reminding us of the importance of standing up against injustice and protecting the lives of others.

Tom Burnett’s family has also played a significant role in keeping his memory alive. They have established the Tom Burnett Foundation, which aims to honor Tom’s legacy by supporting the families of fallen law enforcement officers and firefighters.

In conclusion, Tom Burnett Flight 83 serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The heroic actions of Tom Burnett and the other passengers and crew members on Flight 93 have become a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.