One Of The Deadliest Accidents In U.S. History Happened Right Here In Maryland

Lucky for us, Maryland doesn’t get nearly as many natural disasters as other states. We’re protected by several natural features and located in a relatively “boring” location when it comes to fault lines, tornadoes, etcetera. However, there have been a few tragedies over the years when it comes to other types of disasters. Read on to learn about one of the deadliest plane crashes in United States history, that happened right here in Maryland.

Wikimedia Commons

On December 8, 1963, Pan Am Flight 214 was on a scheduled flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Baltimore, Maryland, and then to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Sadly, while en route from Baltimore to Philadelphia, the plane crashed.

Related Stories

10 Rare Vintage Photos Of The C & O Canal In Maryland

Rare Photos Taken During Liberty Reservoir Construction That Will Simply Astound You

Most People Have No Idea This Historic Ferry In Maryland Even Exists

Wikimedia Commons / NTSB

There were 73 passengers and 8 crew members on board. All 81 people were killed when the plane made impact near Elkton, Maryland.

The probably cause was that the plane was hit by lightning, resulting in the fuel tank exploding and the left wing to crumble and lose control. In 2005, this tragedy was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the worst lightning strike death toll. It still remains Maryland's deadliest plane crash.

Advertisement

Wikimedia Commons

Sometimes out of tragedy comes great realization. After the crash, the Federal Aviation Administration required static dischargers and other safety modifications to all commercial planes in the United States.

Do you remember the crash of Pan Am Flight 214?

For another infamous disaster in Maryland, click here.