TWA Flight 800, B-747, Atlantic Ocean

TWA 800 is one of the most complex accidents in recent history. The investigation is unparalleled in its scope and detail. The investigation, and eventual resolution, covers the fuel, structural, and system disciplines as well as airplane maintenance and ground operations.

There are very important lessons learned, not only in fuel tank safety, but in designing and maintaining safety critical systems to ensure their safe operation over the life of the airplane fleet. This accident also forced the FAA and industry to re-think a 50+ year-old safety assumption/design philosophy. It is for these reasons that TWA 800 was selected as an accident offering valuable lessons learned.

Unlike most of the other accidents in this course, the history on TWA is still being written. In fact, concepts and artwork used in the development of this lesson were used in discussions with the FAA administrator to explain the causes of TWA flight 800, and the need for inerting systems in certain fuel tanks. The photograph on the right, taken by Buddy Bortz, shows the Boeing 747-100 that was lost as TWA Flight 800.

Select Next to view a summary of the facts about this accident.