Aeroflot Flight 19 Hijacked to Vnukovo Airport

November 2nd, 1973

November 2nd, 1973

Aeroflot Flight 19 Hijacked to Vnukovo Airport
How Long Ago?

51 years, 4 months, 13 days ago

Location

Vnukovo International Airport, Moscow, Soviet Union

Category

Crime & Law

Links & References
Tags

Aeroflot Flight 19 Hijacked to Vnukovo Airport

Aeroflot Flight 19, a domestic Soviet flight, was hijacked en route from Leningrad to Moscow. The aircraft was diverted to Vnukovo International Airport, where it was surrounded by Soviet authorities. Passengers were held hostage, leading to a standoff that highlighted the era's aviation security issues. Eventually, the hijacking ended with a police storming of the aircraft, resulting in the arrest of the hijackers and the safe release of hostages.

Flight 19 was a Tupolev Tu-154 jet.

The hijackers diverted the flight to Moscow.

Authorities stormed the aircraft to rescue hostages.

The incident prompted changes in aviation security.

What Happened?

Aeroflot Flight 19, which was operating a domestic route within the Soviet Union, was hijacked by three armed individuals while in flight. The plane, a Tupolev Tu-154, was carrying 57 passengers and crew members from Leningrad to Moscow. The hijackers aimed to divert the plane, creating a chaotic and tense situation in the air as they threatened the crew and passengers. The diversion led the aircraft to land at Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow, where authorities prepared for a potential crisis scenario.

Once on the ground, special forces took positions around the aircraft to prevent the hijackers from escaping. Their demands were not clearly articulated, but a sense of urgency permeated as the situation developed on the ground. Negotiations with the hijackers began almost immediately, but they were ultimately unsuccessful in persuading them to release the passengers or surrender peacefully. The situation escalated further as the authorities made preparations for a tactical assault to end the standoff.

As the night wore on, a covert operation was planned, and soon afterwards, the authorities stormed the aircraft. This swift operation led to the rapid arrest of the hijackers, with all passengers safely freed. The incident prompted significant discussions around aviation security and the measures in place to protect flights within Soviet airspace. This event solidified the necessity for more rigorous safety protocols in the aviation industry, impacting both national and international standards moving forward.

Why Does it Matter?

The hijacking of Aeroflot Flight 19 is intriguing as it revealed vulnerabilities in air travel security during a period of political tension within the Soviet Union. Following this incident, the Soviet government and aviation authorities implemented stronger security measures for their national airlines. The event also served as a precursor to an increase in global awareness regarding hijacking incidents, influencing international aviation policies and protocols in the years that followed.

Discover More Historic Events from November 2nd

Politics & Government

Ethiopian Government and TPLF Sign Peace Agreement

November 2nd, 2022 2 years ago

A peace agreement was signed between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) in Pretoria, South Africa, to end a two-year conflict that led to significant humanitarian crises. The negotiators from both sides aimed to restore stability and rebuild the war-torn region of Tigray, which had faced dire conditions. The agreement included provisions for disarmament, withdrawal of soldiers, and restoration of services, marking a significant step toward peace in Ethiopia.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

ISIL Sympathizer Attack in Vienna

November 2nd, 2020 4 years ago

A gunman, identified as an ISIL sympathizer, opened fire in Vienna's Innere Stadt district, resulting in the death of four individuals and injuring 23 others. The attacker was shot and killed by the police during the incident. The violence erupted in the city's popular night-time area, known for its cafes and bars, causing widespread panic and immediate lockdowns. The assault lasted several hours, with law enforcement responding swiftly to secure the area.

Continue Reading
Sports & Recreation

Cubs Win World Series, End 108-Year Drought

November 2nd, 2016 8 years ago

The Chicago Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians in a thrilling Game 7 of the World Series, bringing an end to the Cubs' 108-year championship drought. The game, held at Progressive Field in Cleveland, was marked by intense moments, with the Cubs overcoming a late-inning rally from the Indians to secure their victory. The series had captivated fans and showcased a dramatic storyline, culminating in a rain delay that added an element of suspense. It was a momentous occasion for Cubs fans around the globe.

Continue Reading
Sports & Recreation

Hamilton Wins Championship in Dramatic Finale

November 2nd, 2008 16 years ago

Lewis Hamilton achieved his first Formula One Drivers' Championship by overtaking Timo Glock on the last lap of the Brazilian Grand Prix. The race, held in São Paulo, was a nail-biting contest where Hamilton needed to secure at least fifth place to clinch the title. In a suspenseful conclusion, Massa had crossed the finish line believing he had won the championship, only for Hamilton's last-gasp maneuver to snatch the title away by a single point.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

First Long-Duration Crew Arrives at ISS

November 2nd, 2000 24 years ago

Expedition 1 marked the inaugural long-duration mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Three crew members arrived at the ISS, including cosmonauts Yuri Usachev, and cosmonaut Sergei Krikalev, along with astronaut William Shepherd. They were tasked with conducting scientific research and maintaining the ISS. Their arrival initiated a continuous human presence in space, with crews rotating aboard the station thereafter, cementing the ISS as a hub for human exploration and collaboration in low Earth orbit.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Deadly Workplace Shooting in Honolulu

November 2nd, 1999 25 years ago

A gunman opened fire at a Honolulu printing company, resulting in the deaths of seven employees. The shooter, who was a disgruntled former employee, targeted his co-workers after being dismissed from work. The incident unfolded during a weekday morning, with emergency services responding swiftly to the scene. The aftermath led to widespread discussion about gun violence and workplace safety in Hawaii.

Continue Reading