Pan Am Flight 214 was a scheduled international flight operated by Pan American World Airways, featuring a Boeing 707-321 jetliner. On a flight from New York City to San Juan, Puerto Rico, the aircraft departed LaGuardia Airport with 81 individuals aboard, comprising 73 passengers and 8 crew members. As Flight 214 approached Philadelphia, it encountered a significant storm system. The airplane was struck by lightning, which created electrical surges and malfunctioned various flight control systems. Despite the pilots' efforts to regain control, the aircraft became uncontrollable and ultimately crashed in a field near Elkton, Maryland.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) arrived on the scene to investigate the accident, with initial findings indicating that the lightning strike was the primary cause of the crash. The accident drew attention to the vulnerability of commercial jets to weather phenomena, prompting the need for improved safety protocols and equipment for handling adverse conditions. Furthermore, it marked a crucial turning point in discussions regarding the design of aircraft to withstand severe weather, highlighting the importance of preventive measures to protect against electrical disruptions and system failures.

With the loss of all 81 lives on board, the disaster significantly impacted the airline industry. It underscored the necessity for better training of flight crews in severe weather management and catalyzed advancements in aircraft technology. Regulations regarding lightning protection and procedures during thunderstorms were reevaluated and enhanced as a result of the accident. The loss felt by the victims' families resonated throughout the nation, reminding the public and aviation authorities alike of the inherent risks associated with air travel, particularly in relation to weather conditions.