Tracking the Path to 9/11: Insights on Security and Hijackers’ Methods

In examining the events leading up to September 11, 2001, detailed analysis reveals significant security lapses and the strategic planning by terrorists. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had alerted airlines in an August 16 circular, titled ‘Disguised Weapons’ (IN-2001-12), about the potential use of modified everyday items as weapons for hijacking. However, this warning had minimal influence on airport security since the hijackers on 9/11 used knives and razors, which were legally permissible on flights at the time.

Evidence from phone calls made by flight attendants and passengers during the hijackings indicated that resistance in First Class led to stabbings and cuts. The groundwork for smuggling bladed weapons onto flights was laid by Khalid Sheikh Mohammed beginning in December 1999. He enlisted Walid bin Attash, known as ‘Khallad,’ to bring a razor knife on a flight from Pakistan to Malaysia. Khallad then tested security on U.S. flights to various Asian destinations.

In January 2000, Khallad escorted Khalid al-Mihdhar and Nawaf al-Hazmi to Malaysia, again carrying a knife onboard. Following these endeavors, Khallad briefed Mohammad Atta and others on his findings. Mohammed Atta returned to the U.S. on July 8, purchasing two Victorinox Swiss Army knives at Zurich airport, which he carried onto the plane.

A closer look at financial records post-9/11 revealed that terrorists aboard each flight had purchased at least seven knives. On August 13, Marwan al-Shehhi, who piloted UA Flight 175 into the South Tower, bought two short-bladed knives at a Florida Sports Authority branch, while co-conspirators acquired additional tools at nearby stores.

Nawaf al-Hazmi bought a Leatherman Wave multi-tool from Target in Maryland on August 27. Although no weapon purchases were shown for UA Flight 93 hijackers, the FBI retrieved 14 knife fragments, including a box cutter, from the wreckage. These blades were no longer than 3.5 inches.

Ramzi Bin al-Shibh, apprehended after the attacks, disclosed to interrogators discussions with Mohammad Atta in Spain regarding hijacking strategies. Bin al-Shibh confirmed Atta, Marwan al-Shehhi, and Ziad Jarrah faced no issues carrying box cutters on domestic test flights across the U.S.

Newsweek continues to provide a comprehensive reconstruction of the events leading to 9/11, posting new accounts daily. They will chronicle the events of September 11 minute-by-minute via Twitter, beginning at 4:45 a.m. EST.