This article commemorates the 43rd anniversary of the Air Florida Flight 90 crash, recounting the events of January 13, 1982, and highlighting the heroic rescue efforts that followed. The text focuses on the bravery of Lenny Skutnik and the chilling footage captured by Chester Panzer, offering a poignant glimpse into a historical event that continues to resonate with those who witnessed it.
Forty-three years ago, on January 13, 1982, Air Florida Flight 90 tragically crashed into the Potomac River shortly after takeoff from Reagan National Airport. This devastating event, which occurred during daytime winter weather conditions, left an indelible mark on those who witnessed the crash and the subsequent heroic rescue efforts . The nation watched in horror as the aircraft, descending rapidly after takeoff, collided with the 14th Street Bridge before plunging into the icy waters.
Photojournalist Chester Panzer vividly remembers the chaos at National Airport that day. In a 2022 interview marking the 40th anniversary of the crash, he described the scene as one of pandemonium with hundreds of stranded passengers and a packed terminal. Panzer and his soundman, George Patterson, were redirected to cover the crash after completing a different assignment. Their camera captured the horrifying moments following the impact as five survivors managed to escape the submerged aircraft and swim to safety in the frigid water.Among the survivors was Priscilla Tirado, who was seen desperately clinging to a life preserver before losing her grip and being left adrift. In a display of remarkable courage, government worker Lenny Skutnik, witnessing Tirado's plight during his morning commute, without hesitation plunged into the icy waters and swam to her rescue. Panzer's footage immortalized Skutnik's selfless act, capturing the desperation on Tirado's face and the determination in Skutnik's eyes as he reached her. The images were quickly relayed to a live truck on the DC side of the river, where photographer Peggy Gannon and the late Cardoza Worthy were waiting. Gannon and Worthy, along with Panzer's narration, brought the harrowing events to the nation's attention, showcasing the bravery and resilience displayed amidst the tragedy.
Air Florida Flight 90 Potomac River Crash Lenny Skutnik Chester Panzer Rescue Efforts 1982 Tragedy
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Remembering the Air Florida Flight 90 Crash and Heroic RescueThis article recounts the tragic Air Florida Flight 90 crash in 1982, highlighting the harrowing rescue of survivor Priscilla Tirado by Lenny Skutnik. The article draws parallels to recent events, referencing a recent midair collision. It also features firsthand accounts from photojournalists who witnessed the crash and its aftermath.
Read more »
Air Florida Flight 90 Crash: A Haunting Reminder of 1982 Potomac River TragedyForty-three years after Air Florida Flight 90 plunged into the Potomac River, the harrowing rescue efforts are revisited in light of a recent midair collision. The 1982 crash, fueled by winter weather conditions, resulted in numerous fatalities. A handful of survivors, including Priscilla Tirado, fought for their lives in the icy waters. The courageous act of Lenny Skutnik, who bravely jumped into the river to save Tirado, became a defining moment of the tragedy. Archival footage of the rescue, captured by photojournalist Chester Panzer, remains a powerful testament to the human spirit in the face of disaster.
Read more »
Air Florida Flight 90 Crash: A Haunting Reminder of Human Courage and LossForty-three years ago, the Air Florida Flight 90 crash shook the nation. This article revisits the tragic event, highlighting the heroic rescue efforts and the lasting impact it had on those involved.
Read more »
Kansas Air National Guard Member Dies on Air France FlightA member of the Kansas Air National Guard has tragically passed away during a flight from Paris to Boston.
Read more »
Flight Risk: Mel Gibson's Latest Thriller to Take Flight in January 2025Mark Wahlberg stars in Mel Gibson's new thriller Flight Risk, a suspenseful tale of survival set aboard a plane. The film, scheduled for release in January 2025, explores themes of trust, deception, and the lengths people will go to for their own safety.
Read more »
United Airlines Flight Experiences Sudden In-Flight Movement, Passengers InjuredA United Airlines flight from Lagos to Washington Dulles International Airport made an emergency landing in Lagos after experiencing a sudden in-flight movement, injuring four passengers and two crew members. The cause of the incident is under investigation.
Read more »