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Today in History: Boeing 247 explosion marks aviation sabotage first

10/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On October 10, 1933, United Air Lines Flight 23, a Boeing 247, exploded mid-air near Chesterton, Indiana, marking the first confirmed act of sabotage in commercial aviation. The incident resulted in the deaths of all seven individuals on board, including three crew members and four passengers. Eyewitnesses reported hearing explosions as the aircraft fell.

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Story summary

On October 10, 1933, United Air Lines Flight 23, a Boeing 247, exploded mid-air near Chesterton, Indiana, marking the first confirmed act of sabotage in commercial aviation. The incident resulted in the deaths of all seven individuals on board, including three crew members and four passengers. Eyewitnesses reported hearing explosions as the aircraft fell.