Heroes of the Potomac: The Story of Air Florida Flight 90

TLDROn January 13, 1982, a Boeing 737 crashed into the 14th Street Bridge in Washington D.C. during a blizzard. The plane struggled to gain altitude due to engine de-icing issues. The crash resulted in several fatalities, but brave individuals, including rescuers and survivors, displayed acts of heroism and worked together to save lives.

Key insights

🔥The Boeing 737 crashed into the 14th Street Bridge due to engine de-icing issues.

⚡️The crash occurred during a blizzard in Washington D.C.

👨‍🚒Rescue efforts were initially hindered by the icy water of the Potomac River.

🚁A Park Police helicopter played a crucial role in the rescue operation.

💪Survivors and bystanders displayed acts of bravery and worked together to save lives.

Q&A

What caused the crash of Air Florida Flight 90?

The crash was caused by engine de-icing issues, as the pilot failed to activate the engine de-icers.

When did the crash occur?

The crash occurred on January 13, 1982, during a blizzard in Washington D.C.

How did the rescuers overcome the challenges of icy water?

Rescuers used a makeshift rope and swam through the icy water to reach the survivors.

Was the Park Police helicopter instrumental in the rescue operation?

Yes, the Park Police helicopter played a crucial role in the rescue operation by providing assistance from the air.

Were there any acts of heroism during the incident?

Yes, both survivors and bystanders displayed acts of heroism by risking their lives and working together to save lives.

Timestamped Summary

00:00On January 13, 1982, during a blizzard in Washington D.C., a Boeing 737 crashed into the 14th Street Bridge due to engine de-icing issues.

05:59Survivors and bystanders displayed acts of bravery and worked together to save lives.

10:00A Park Police helicopter played a crucial role in the rescue operation, despite the challenges posed by the icy water of the Potomac River.

15:00Brave individuals swam through the icy water using a makeshift rope to reach survivors.