9/11 Attacks: What Time Did They Happen?

The 9/11 attacks remain a pivotal moment in modern history, forever etching themselves into our collective memory. Understanding the timeline of these tragic events is crucial for grasping the full impact and the subsequent reshaping of global policies. So, when did these attacks actually occur? Let's break down the timeline to understand the sequence of events that unfolded on that fateful day.

The Timeline of Terror: Key Moments of the 9/11 Attacks

The 9/11 attacks were a series of four coordinated terrorist attacks by the Islamic terrorist group al-Qaeda against the United States on the morning of September 11, 2001. These attacks resulted in 2,977 fatalities, over 25,000 injuries, and substantial long-term health consequences, in addition to at least $10 billion in infrastructure and property damage. The attacks began in the early morning hours and unfolded with devastating precision.

8:46 AM: American Airlines Flight 11 Hits the North Tower

The nightmare began at 8:46:40 AM Eastern Time when American Airlines Flight 11, en route from Boston to Los Angeles, crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. The Boeing 767, carrying 92 people, struck between the 93rd and 99th floors. The impact caused an enormous explosion and sent debris scattering across the area. This initial strike immediately signaled that something catastrophic was unfolding. News outlets quickly began reporting the event, initially speculating about an accident. However, the sheer magnitude and location of the impact suggested something far more sinister.

9:03 AM: United Airlines Flight 175 Strikes the South Tower

Just 17 minutes later, at 9:03:11 AM Eastern Time, United Airlines Flight 175, also traveling from Boston to Los Angeles, slammed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center. This Boeing 767, carrying 65 people, hit between the 77th and 85th floors. This second strike confirmed that the events were not accidental but rather a coordinated attack. The world watched in horror as both towers now burned intensely, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. The vulnerability of such iconic structures was immediately apparent, and the sense of shock and disbelief deepened.

9:37 AM: American Airlines Flight 77 Hits the Pentagon

As the world grappled with the unfolding tragedy in New York, at 9:37:46 AM Eastern Time, American Airlines Flight 77, flying from Washington Dulles International Airport to Los Angeles, crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The Boeing 757, carrying 64 people, struck the west side of the Pentagon, causing a partial collapse of the structure. The attack on the Pentagon, the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense, underscored the scope and intent of the terrorists. The Pentagon attack added another layer of complexity and horror to the day's events.

9:59 AM: The South Tower Collapses

Less than an hour after being struck, at 9:59:04 AM Eastern Time, the South Tower of the World Trade Center collapsed. The intense heat from the fire weakened the steel support structures, leading to a complete structural failure. The collapse sent a massive cloud of dust and debris cascading through Lower Manhattan. The sudden collapse was a devastating blow, leading to further loss of life and immense chaos. The event was broadcast live around the world, solidifying the day's horror in the global consciousness. — Terence Crawford's Boxing Record: A Closer Look

10:03 AM: United Airlines Flight 93 Crashes in Pennsylvania

At 10:03:11 AM Eastern Time, United Airlines Flight 93, which had been delayed and was traveling from Newark, New Jersey, to San Francisco, crashed in a field in Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania. The Boeing 757, carrying 44 people, crashed after passengers and crew members fought back against the hijackers. The heroic actions of those on board prevented the plane from reaching its intended target, believed to be either the U.S. Capitol Building or the White House in Washington, D.C. The story of Flight 93 became a symbol of courage and resistance in the face of terror. — Texas Tech Football: Your Ultimate Guide To The Red Raiders

10:28 AM: The North Tower Collapses

Approximately 29 minutes after the South Tower collapsed, at 10:28:22 AM Eastern Time, the North Tower of the World Trade Center also succumbed to the fire and collapsed. Like the South Tower, the structural integrity of the North Tower was compromised by the intense heat, leading to its catastrophic failure. The collapse of the North Tower compounded the devastation and loss of life in New York City. The visual of both towers collapsing remains one of the most iconic and tragic images of the 21st century.

The Aftermath and Lasting Impact

The 9/11 attacks had a profound and lasting impact on the United States and the world. The immediate aftermath involved massive rescue and recovery efforts, as well as investigations into the planning and execution of the attacks. The attacks led to significant changes in security measures at airports and other public spaces, as well as the launch of the War on Terror. The United States, along with its allies, engaged in military interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq, aiming to dismantle al-Qaeda and prevent future terrorist attacks.

In addition to the immediate consequences, the 9/11 attacks also had long-term social, economic, and political effects. The attacks led to increased surveillance and security measures, as well as debates about civil liberties and government power. The attacks also contributed to a rise in Islamophobia and discrimination against Muslim communities. Economically, the attacks resulted in significant costs, including the cost of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the cost of increased security measures. Politically, the attacks reshaped American foreign policy and led to a greater focus on counterterrorism.

Understanding the precise times of the 9/11 attacks helps us to comprehend the sequence of events and the scale of the tragedy. The timeline serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of terrorism and the importance of vigilance and resilience in the face of such threats. Remembering the events of that day is crucial for honoring the victims and ensuring that such a tragedy never happens again. The legacy of 9/11 continues to shape our world, influencing our policies, our security measures, and our collective consciousness. — Jang Ki Yong & Song Hye Kyo: Decoding Their Connection