United Pilot Cited as Hero in 1989 Iowa Crash Commands Final Flight
Capt. Alfred C. Haynes, the United Airlines pilot who guided a severely crippled DC-10 to an Iowa crash landing that 184 people survived, commanded his last flight for the airline Monday. He was joined by other survivors of the 1989 flight.
Haynes, who retires this week, said before Monday’s Flight 455 to Seattle that he does not want to be remembered as the only hero aboard the plane he guided to Sioux City two years ago with no controls other than engine throttles.
Haynes told reporters at Stapleton International Airport that he was “one of thousands” who helped spare many victims aboard Flight 232.
On July 19, 1989, United Flight 232 lost hydraulic power, meaning Haynes could not use control surfaces on the wings and tail to direct the plane. He and his crew had to steer and attempt to land by alternately accelerating and decelerating the right and left engines.
During landing, the plane cartwheeled, broke into four pieces and caught fire, killing 112 people.
At Haynes’ request, most of the Flight 232 crew gathered at the Denver airport for his farewell flight.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
