Pacific Airlines Flight 773 Hijacking and Crash

May 7th, 1964

May 7th, 1964

Pacific Airlines Flight 773 Hijacking and Crash
How Long Ago?

60 years, 10 months, 8 days ago

Location

Contra Costa County, California, USA

Category

Crime & Law

People
  • Pilot
  • Francisco Gonzales
  • Co-pilot
Links & References
Tags

Pacific Airlines Flight 773 Hijacking and Crash

Pacific Airlines Flight 773 was hijacked by Francisco Gonzales while en route from Sacramento to San Francisco. The aircraft, a Martin 4-0-4, was taken over during the flight in the airspace above Contra Costa County, California. Gonzales demanded the pilots fly to Mexico, but in the struggle that ensued, the plane ultimately crashed, killing all 44 passengers and crew on board. The hijacking resulted in Grand Theft charges against Gonzales.

Flight was hijacked mid-air over California.

44 people died in the crash, including crew.

Gonzales demanded to fly to Mexico.

Incident led to increased aviation security.

What Happened?

Pacific Airlines Flight 773, a scheduled flight connecting Sacramento to San Francisco, was hijacked on the afternoon of May 7, 1964, by Francisco Gonzales. While the plane was in the air, Gonzales, armed, demanded that the pilots divert their course towards Mexico. During this tense situation, a struggle broke out in the cockpit as the crew attempted to regain control of the aircraft, which was exacerbated by Gonzales's erratic behavior. Tragically, in the chaos, the plane crashed into a heavily wooded area in Contra Costa County, resulting in the death of all 44 individuals on board.

The Martin 4-0-4 aircraft was operating at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet when the hijacking took place. Gonzales, in his attempts to control the aircraft, was reportedly yelling and making unpredictable demands. Following the crash, investigation revealed that the plane had descended rapidly, losing altitude as the pilots fought to regain operational control while managing the threats posed by the hijacker. The aircraft ultimately crashed just two minutes after the first hijack attempt was reported.

In the aftermath of the crash, it was discovered that Gonzales was under the influence of alcohol, which contributed to his irrational behavior. The incident marked a significant moment in aviation safety and security, leading to increased scrutiny of airport and flight security measures, as well as stricter regulations concerning hijacking incidents in the ensuing years. The tragic end to Flight 773 served as a catalyst for discussions about the need for comprehensive procedures to address hijacking threats in commercial aviation.

Why Does it Matter?

The hijacking and crash of Pacific Airlines Flight 773 highlighted the vulnerabilities in aviation security during the 1960s, a period that saw a rise in hijackings. This incident prompted the aviation industry to reevaluate security protocols and implement more stringent measures to prevent future hijackings and ensure passenger safety. The changes initiated as a result of this event established the foundation for the modern aviation security systems we rely on today.

Discover More Historic Events from May 7th

Crime & Law

Nick Berg Beheaded by Militants on Video

May 7th, 2004 20 years ago

Nick Berg, an American businessman, was kidnapped in Iraq by Islamic militants. His execution was videotaped and released online, causing global outrage. The act was intended as a show of power by the militants amid the Iraq War backdrop. Berg had traveled to Iraq to work on telecommunications infrastructure. His brutal killing was publicized, leading to significant media attention and discussions about the risks faced by civilians in war zones.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

EgyptAir Boeing 737-500 Crash Near Tunis

May 7th, 2002 22 years ago

An EgyptAir Boeing 737-500 aircraft crashed on approach to Tunis–Carthage International Airport, resulting in 14 fatalities. The flight was operating from Cairo to Tunis and encountered difficulties during the landing phase, leading to the tragedy. Investigators later focused on weather conditions and potential technical failures as contributing factors to the accident.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

China Northern Airlines Flight MD-82 Crash

May 7th, 2002 22 years ago

A China Northern Airlines MD-82 experienced a catastrophic failure and plunged into the Yellow Sea near Dalian. The aircraft was carrying 112 people, including passengers and crew, when it lost control shortly after takeoff due to technical malfunctions. Rescuers were dispatched to the area but were unable to recover any survivors from the wreckage beneath the water’s surface. The event raised significant concerns regarding aircraft safety standards in Chinese aviation.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Vladimir Putin's Presidential Inauguration Ceremony

May 7th, 2000 24 years ago

Vladimir Putin was inaugurated as the President of Russia in a ceremony held in the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow. This marked the beginning of his first official term after winning the presidential election in March. Attended by dignitaries and the media, the event showcased Putin's vision for Russia’s future and underscored his commitment to stabilize the nation while enhancing its international standing.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Military Coup Ousts President João Bernardo Vieira

May 7th, 1999 25 years ago

In Guinea-Bissau, a military coup led to the ousting of President João Bernardo Vieira. This abrupt change occurred after escalating tensions between Vieira's government and military factions. Discontent had been growing over corruption and political instability, prompting military leaders to take control. The coup was marked by violence, with military forces seizing key government buildings in the capital, Bissau. As a result, Vieira was forced from power, leading to significant changes in the country's political landscape.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Pope John Paul II's Historic Romania Visit

May 7th, 1999 25 years ago

Pope John Paul II traveled to Romania, marking a significant milestone as he became the first pope to visit a predominantly Eastern Orthodox country since the Great Schism in 1054. The visit was aimed at fostering dialogue between the Catholic and Orthodox churches, promoting reconciliation and unity among Christians. It included meetings with Orthodox leaders and a large open-air Mass in Bucharest, attended by thousands. The trip was a gesture of goodwill and an effort to bridge historical divides.

Continue Reading