Incident Overview
Date: Tuesday 19 November 1968
Aircraft Type: Boeing 707-324C
Owner/operator: Continental Air Lines
Registration Number: N17325
Location: over Gunnison, CO –
ÿ United States of America
Phase of Flight: Take off
Status: Substantial, repaired
Casualties: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 70
Component Affected: Lavatory systemLavatory system
Category: Unlawful Interference
A passenger exiting a lavatory area during descent through FL240 near Denver experienced an explosion and subsequent fire. The incident resulted in a safe emergency landing. The passenger was subsequently arrested by the FBI.A passenger exiting a lavatory area during descent through FL240 near Denver experienced an explosion and subsequent fire. The incident resulted in a safe emergency landing. The passenger was subsequently arrested by the FBI.
Description
While descending through FL240 towards Denver, an explosion occurred in the lavatory, followed by a fire. A safe emergency landing was carried out. The passenger, seen leaving the lavatory just before the explosion, was arrested by the FBI.
Primary Cause
Explosion likely caused by a mechanical failure or malfunction within the lavatory system.Explosion likely caused by a mechanical failure or malfunction within the lavatory system.Share on:
