9.20.21 – 32 Years Later: Remembering USAir Flight 5050

Monday, September 20, 2021

32 Years Later: Remembering USAir Flight 5050

On September 20, 1989, USAir Flight 5050 from New York’s LaGuardia Airport to Charlotte, N.C., experienced an aborted takeoff. The aircraft had accelerated to nearly 160 miles per hour, and due to the runway’s wet conditions, the aircraft could not be stopped. The Boeing 737-400 aircraft crashed into Bowery Bay in the East River.

The flight was carrying 57 passengers and six crew members. Thanks to the heroic efforts of the Flight Attendants, 55 of the 57 passengers survived, along with all six crewmembers.

APFA honors and recognizes the BWI-based Flight Attendants of USAir Flight 5050

Kelly Donovan
Jolynn Galmish
Susan Harrelson Gilliam
Wayne Reed