The Road to 9/11: Preparations and Actions of Hijackers

A Glimpse Into Preparations

In a detailed examination of the events leading to 9/11, we capture the moments that went unnoticed 25 years ago. This retelling revisits the series of activities and decisions that paved the way to the tragic day.

The Actions of September 3, 2001

On September 3, Marwan Al-Shehhi visited Walmart in Pompano Beach, Florida, purchasing items including a toggle switch, gel mate, auto tape, and a 9-volt battery. These components were likely used to construct a device intended to resemble a bomb, aiming to intimidate and take control of United Airlines Flight 175.

Peter Hanson, a passenger on Al-Shehhi’s flight, made a distressing call to his father. He recounted: “It’s getting bad … A stewardess was stabbed … They said they have a bomb … Passengers are getting sick … I think we are going down … I think they intend to go to Chicago or someplace and fly into a building.”

Events Across Different Flights

Mohammed Atta orchestrated chaos on American Airlines Flight 11 by spraying irritants in the first-class cabin, forcing passengers and crew to the back under the claim of possessing a bomb. However, they did not possess even fake components akin to those Al-Shehhi had assembled.

American Airlines Flight 77, aimed at the Pentagon, saw no mention from passengers or crew regarding stabbings, irritants, or bomb threats during communicated accounts.

On United Flight 93, Ziad Jarrah made an announcement at 9:32 a.m., asserting the presence of a bomb onboard. Yet, evidence suggests no bomb existed, nor were fake components like those compiled by Al-Shehhi present.

The 9/11 Commission’s Findings

The 9/11 Commission reported a lack of bomb traces at crash sites, with FBI briefings affirming no evidence of explosives was found. A passenger recalling a supposed bomb seemed skeptical of its authenticity. The commission leaned towards the conclusion that any purported bombs were fabricated for intimidation.