Explore what unfolded during the tragic 9/11 attacks—how four hijacked planes caused devastation across New York, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania—and learn how nearly 3,000 lives were lost, with countless others impacted for years.
On the morning of September 11, 2001, the world watched in horror as al-Qaeda hijackers commandeered four commercial airplanes in a coordinated terrorist attack. The first plane, American Airlines Flight 11, struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center at 8:46 a.m., followed by United Airlines Flight 175, crashing into the South Tower at 9:03 a.m.
Shortly after, American Airlines Flight 77 collided with the Pentagon at 9:37 a.m., and at 10:03 a.m., United Airlines Flight 93 crashed into a field in Pennsylvania as passengers attempted to regain control.
These attacks resulted in the deaths of 2,996 people in total—including 2,977 victims and 19 of the hijackers themselves
- New York City bore the brunt, with more than 2,600 lives lost at the World Trade Center, including notable figures like 343 firefighters, 71 law enforcement officers, and 55 military personnel
- The Pentagon attack claimed 125 lives
- Fatalities aboard the hijacked planes were: approximately 92 on Flight 11, 65 on Flight 175, 64 on Flight 77, and 44 on Flight 93
Aftermath & Long-Term Impact
The human cost extended beyond that fateful day. Thousands suffered injuries, and many continue to battle health issues linked to toxic exposure from the attacks.
Advancements in DNA testing have allowed for new identifications. As of recent reports, three more victims have been identified, bringing the tally to about 1,653 confirmed victims, with roughly 1,100 still unidentified.
