Wreckage Dispersion: Red, Yellow, and Green Zones
Possible Causes of In-Flight Breakup
No Evidence of Structural Failure and Decompression
No Evidence of
High-Energy Explosion
Participants in
Examination of Wreckage
Reconstruction shows no evidence of large holes suggestive of missile penetration.
Physical Evidence Consistent with Fuel/Air Vapor Explosion in Center Wing Tank
Flight Test and Flammability Research Showed
Conclusions Regarding Fuel/Air Vapor Explosion
Very Unlikely Ignition Sources
Maintenance and Aging Aircraft Issues
FAA Initiatives to Address Aging Systems
Current Design and Certification Philosophy
Flaws in the Current Design and Certification Philosophy
No Flammable Vapor = No Accident
December 1996 Safety Recommendations to the FAA
FAA Response to December 1996 Safety Recommendations
Certification Issues for Future Consideration
Safety Issues Identified During the TWA 800 Accident Investigation