University of Virginia Library

Plane Evacuated

"We landed in Cairo with directions to
evacuate as soon as the plane stopped. I could
smell the sulphur in the fuses burning when we
hit the ground. The chutes were opened and
people began to pile out of the aircraft. I think
everyone was amazed at the efficiency and
composure shown by the crew and passengers
alike during the flight and especially after the
landing."

A mid gunfire and smoke from the fuses, the
plane was evacuated. There was considerable
trouble with passengers being blown down by
the 85 m.p.h. winds from the jets of the plane.

"I was the last one out before the
stewardess. As we were running from the plane
two explosions went off somewhere near the
cockpit section. About fifty yards farther, the
rest of the 747 went up in smoke."

"People here keep saying 'Wow, I wish I'd
been there,' but I'd like to say I wish I hadn't.
It may have been an experience, but it was no
fun."

Photo by Rick Smith

Richard Cochrane

First-Yearman Hijack Victim