Alfred C. Haynes, the United Airlines pilot renowned for his extraordinary leadership during the 1989 crash landing of Flight 232, passed away on August 25, 2019, in Seattle at the age of 87. Haynes is credited with saving 184 lives in what is considered one of aviation’s most remarkable emergency landings.
On July 19, 1989, Flight 232 suffered a catastrophic failure when the tail engine’s fan disk disintegrated, severing all three hydraulic lines and rendering the aircraft’s control systems inoperative. Haynes, along with First Officer William Records, Flight Engineer Dudley Dvorak, and off-duty pilot Dennis Fitch, managed to maneuver the crippled DC-10 using only engine thrust. Despite their efforts, the plane crash-landed at Sioux Gateway Airport in Iowa, resulting in 112 fatalities. The survival of the remaining passengers and crew was largely attributed to the crew’s skill and composure under pressure.
Haynes was born in Paris, Texas, and entered the Naval Aviation Cadet Training program in 1952, serving as a Marine aviator before joining United Airlines in 1956. He retired in 1991 after a 35-year career. Post-retirement, he dedicated his time to community service in Seattle, volunteering as a Little League umpire and high school football announcer.
Known for his humility, Haynes often deflected the “hero” label, emphasizing the collective effort of his crew, flight attendants, passengers, and emergency responders. His actions during the Flight 232 incident have been studied extensively in aviation training programs, highlighting the importance of teamwork and crisis management.
Haynes’ legacy endures as a testament to exceptional airmanship and the profound impact of calm leadership in the face of adversity.