National Airlines Flight 2511: Difference between revisions

National Airlines Flight 2511
	A National Airlines DC-6B; (sister ship to accident aircraft)
Bombing
Date	January 6, 1960
Summary	Suspected suicide bombing
Site	Brunswick County, near Bolivia, North Carolina, United States ; 34°04′47″N 78°10′50″W / 34.0798°N 78.1805°W
Aircraft
Aircraft type	Douglas DC-6B
Operator	National Airlines
Registration	N8225H
Flight origin	Idlewild Airport, New York City
Destination	Miami, Florida, United States
Occupants	34
Passengers	29
Crew	5
Fatalities	34
Survivors	0

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National Airlines Flight 2511 was a United States domestic passenger flight from New York City to Miami, Florida. On January 6, 1960, the Douglas DC-6 serving the flight exploded in midair. The National Airlines aircraft was carrying 5 crew members and 29 passengers, all of whom perished. The Civil Aeronautics Board investigation concluded that the plane was brought down by a bomb made of dynamite. No criminal charges were ever filed, nor was the blame for the bombing ever determined, though a suicide bombing is suspected. The investigation remains open.

One of the victims was retired U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Edward Orrick McDonnell, a Medal of Honor recipient and veteran of both World Wars.

Flight history

National Airlines' New York-Miami route was usually flown by a Boeing 707^[1] as Flight 601.^[2] On January 5, 1960, the 707 aircraft scheduled to fly to Miami was grounded due to cracks that were discovered in the cockpit windshield.^[1] The windshield replacement procedure would take eight hours to perform, so National Airlines transferred the passengers of Flight 601 to two propliner aircraft it had in reserve.^[3]

Passengers were boarded on these two replacement planes on a first-come, first-served basis. Seventy-six passengers boarded a Lockheed L-188 Electra.^[1]^[4]^[5] This aircraft flew to Miami and arrived safely.^[5]^[6]

The remaining 29 passengers boarded a Douglas DC-6B, which departed Idlewild Airport for Miami as Flight 2511.^[1] They were accompanied by two stewardesses, pilot Dale Southard (45), copilot Richard L. Hentzel (31), and flight engineer Robert R. Halleckson (34).^[7] The plane departed New York at 11:52 p.m. and was scheduled to arrive in Miami at 4:36 a.m. on January 6.^[8]

The aircraft, registration N8225H,^[9] was described as being in good condition.^[10] It had four Pratt and Whitney R-2800 CB-16 engines and had accumulated 24,836 hours of flight time.^[11]

2511's flight plan called for it to fly south from New York to Wilmington, North Carolina, where it would continue south over the Atlantic Ocean. It would fly south 550 miles (890 km) over the ocean to Palm Beach, Florida.^[8] The crew maintained radio contact with National Airlines' radio controllers and air traffic control, reporting clouds and instrument flying conditions.^[4] The crew checked in with Wilmington Airport at 2:07 a.m.,^[12] and later reported flying over the Carolina Beach radio beacon at 2:31 a.m. This was the last radio contact with the airplane.^[4]

Crash and recovery

After losing contact with the DC-6 aircraft, National Airlines, the United States Coast Guard, and the United States Navy began an intensive search along the southeastern coast of the United States. The search was called off the following day, when National Airlines received word that there was a plane down in North Carolina.^[8]

At about 2:45 a.m. a farmer, Richard Randolph, heard the sound of an engine cutting in and out, followed by tearing metal and an explosion. Later that morning, after his teenage son McArthur Randolph found airplane wreckage in one of his father's fields, Richard Randolph drove to Bolivia, North Carolina, which had the nearest phone.^[6] He called Wilmington Airport to report the downed plane at approximately 7:00 a.m.^[4] When Highway Patrol officers responded, he led them to the crash site.^[6]

Bodies and wreckage were scattered over an area of 20 acres (8 ha)^[1] covering farm fields, marshland, and pine forests.^[10]

During the first day of search and rescue, investigators located 32 bodies of the 34 persons on board.^[1]^[10] One of the missing bodies was later found at the main crash site. The remaining body was found at Snow's Marsh, approximately 16 miles (26 km) from the main site.^[13]

Initial reports speculated that the aircraft had disintegrated in mid-flight.^[1]^[10]^[12]^[14] One newspaper reporter indicated that the largest piece of wreckage he observed was a portion of the wing.^[15] A fragment of aluminum, believed to be a piece of the airplane's skin, was found on Kure Beach, 25 miles (40 km) from the rest of the wreckage.^[12]^[14]

Investigations

The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), part of the Department of Transportation, were the primary investigators into the crash of Flight 2511. The wreckage of the DC-6 was taken to a hangar at nearby Wilmington Airport, where the fuselage was reassembled on a wood-and-chicken-wire frame. Investigators recovered approximately 90% of the fuselage, which was then assembled on the frame in the Wilmington hangar.^[17]

Investigators identified the point of origin of the disintegration as an area immediately ahead of the leading edge of the aircraft's right wing. The material recovered from Kure Beach, including a portion of the wing fillet, was from this general area. Investigators did not recover material from an irregular, triangularly shaped area positioned above the leading edge and extending forward ahead of the wing.^[17]

The bodies were taken to the local high school gymnasium to await autopsy and identification by a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprinting team.^[10]^[12] The Brunswick County coroner^[18] ordered autopsies of the passengers and crew to determine the specific cause of death for each.^[13] One of the victims was Vice Admiral Edward Orrick McDonnell, U.S. Navy (retired), a recipient of the Medal of Honor and a veteran of both World Wars.^[1] Other victims included a vice president of the Continental Bank of Cuba, a pharmacist, a student at the University of Miami, and an insurance adjuster. Three of the victims had been standby passengers and only made the flight due to others cancelling their reservations.^[5]

Julian Frank

The only body not found at the main crash site was that of Julian Frank, a New York City lawyer. His body was recovered from Snow's Marsh,^[19] located on the west side of the Cape Fear River.^[13] Frank's body had sustained significant injuries, including the amputation of both legs, and debris was embedded in his body. Frank's injuries were significantly different from and much more extensive than the other passengers'.^[20] Furthermore, Frank's injuries were inconsistent with the type of injury usually incurred in an aircraft accident.^[21]

Frank was autopsied twice, the second time to recover debris embedded in his body.^[19] The autopsy revealed that his lower extremities had been ripped off; his muscle tissue was extensively mutilated and torn; small pieces of wire, brass, and miscellaneous articles including a hat ornament were embedded in various limbs; the fingers of his right hand were fractured and the bones splintered; and the distal phalanx of each finger on his left hand was missing. The coroner also observed numerous patches of blackened areas, similar to close-range gunshot residue.^[22] Four human finger bones were discovered among the wreckage at the primary crash site.^[23]

At the time of the crash, Frank had been accused of running a charity scam and was under investigation by the Manhattan district attorney's office. It was alleged that he had misappropriated up to a million dollars (roughly equivalent to $8 million in 2023 dollars) in a series of scams.^[20]

Bombing

The crash of National Airlines Flight 2511 came shortly after the crash of another National Airlines plane.^[15]^[24] National Airlines Flight 967 exploded over the Gulf of Mexico on November 16, 1959. The cause of the explosion was believed to be a bomb in the luggage of one of the passengers, Robert Vernon Spears, who enlisted a substitute to board the plane in his place. Spears was heavily insured, and the FBI indicated that his motive was insurance fraud. Similarly, Julian Frank was covered by almost $900,000 (roughly equivalent to $7.1 million in 2023 dollars) in life insurance policies,^[24]^[25] including some purchased the day of the crash.^[24]

The CAB sent the material recovered from Frank's body to the FBI laboratories for testing and analysis.^[23] Analysis determined that the many wire fragments that were found embedded in Frank's body, in the seats on the right-hand side, and in the carpeting, were low-carbon steel wire, 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) in diameter.^[26] One of the dismembered fingers recovered from the wreckage had been embedded in the face plate of a travel alarm clock.^[23] A life jacket from Kure Beach, found with parts of a flight bag embedded in it, tested positive for nitrate residue. A black "crusty" residue on Frank's right hand was found to be manganese dioxide, a substance found in dry cell batteries.^[21]

In addition to the evidence collected from Frank's body, there were also samples of residue taken from the air vents and hat rack located on the right side of the aircraft near the leading edge of the wing. These samples contained sodium carbonate, sodium nitrate, and mixtures of sodium-sulfur compounds.^[27]

The Civil Aeronautics Board concluded the severity of Frank's injuries and the numerous particulates found embedded in his body could only be attributed to his proximity to an explosion.^[21] Furthermore, the chemical compounds detected in the area around the explosion's point of origin were consistent with those generated by a dynamite explosion. The manganese dioxide samples collected from the seats near the focal point and from Frank's body indicated a dry cell battery was located very near the explosive. The CAB determined, based on the blast pattern, a dynamite charge had been placed underneath the window seat of row 7.^[27]

The CAB's chief investigator, Oscar Bakke, testified before the Senate Aviation subcommittee to this effect on January 12, 1960. The same day, the FBI formally took over the criminal aspects of the investigation.^[25]

Other theories

One of the first theories considered by investigators was that Flight 2511 was involved in a collision with another airliner, given the crash site's proximity to Wilmington Airport. Investigators reviewed the flight plan and other documents to determine if other aircraft were in the area. There was no record of any other aircraft, or of any military missiles having been fired. Furthermore, wreckage of Flight 2511 was confined to two general locations, namely the primary crash scene near Bolivia and the secondary scene in Kure Beach. All debris was accounted for as belonging to the DC-6.^[28]

Another theory presented by an expert shortly after the crash theorized that an engine fire could have been the catalyst of the accident. Under this theory, one of the two engines on the right wing may have caught fire. Shrapnel from the engine may have punctured the fuselage, causing explosive decompression.

Alternatively, Julian Frank, who was known to be desperately afraid of flying, may have panicked and hit the window, weakening it in such a manner it subsequently blew out. Under this theory, the pilots and passengers would have been aware of an emergency aboard, which would have allowed them to begin making preparations for an emergency landing.^[29] This theory was supported by the wide right turn the aircraft appeared to make prior to disintegrating and crashing,^[29] as well as the fact some of the passengers were found wearing life jackets.^[10]^[12]^[29]^[30]

Though the bombing and engine fire theories were the most commonly held, other theories were advanced during the investigation as well. Several days after the explosion, National Airlines pilots who were members of the Airline Pilots Association sent a telegram to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In the telegram, they made a claim that the routine proficiency flights performed by pilots caused unnecessary stress on the aircraft. These test flights, which pilots underwent every six months, required the pilots to put their aircraft through "violent maneuvers" which could damage the aircraft.^[31]

In their final report, the Civil Aeronautics Board indicated it had investigated a variety of alternative theories, including:^[27]

metal fatigue failure of the cabin leading to explosive decompression
a propeller blade failing, striking, and rupturing the cabin
a malfunction in the cabin pressurization system leading to structural failure
a foreign object striking the plane and penetrating the cabin
lightning strike
fuel vapor explosion
oxygen bottle explosion

The CAB ruled out each of these theories during the course of their investigation.^[27]

Conclusions

The Civil Aeronautics Board concluded Flight 2511 was brought down by a dynamite explosion in the passenger cabin. The explosive charge was located "beneath the extreme right seat of seat row No. 7." The report also pointed out that Julian Frank was close to the explosion, though it assigned no blame to him.^[32]

The explosion occurred at approximately 2:33 a.m., significantly damaging the structural integrity of the aircraft and forcing it into a wide right-hand turn. As it descended, it suffered an in-flight disintegration and crashed at 2:38 a.m.^[32]

The CAB concluded in their final report:

No reference is made in this report concerning the placing of the dynamite aboard the aircraft or of the person or persons responsible for its detonation. The malicious destruction of an aircraft is a Federal crime. After the Board's determination that such was involved, the criminal aspects of this accident were referred to the Department of Justice through its Federal Bureau of Investigation ...

The Board determines that the probable cause of this accident was the detonation of dynamite within the passenger cabin. — Civil Aeronautics Board File No. 1-0002, pp. 1,12^[33]

The FBI assumed control of the criminal investigation on January 20, 1960.^[25] The case remains open and unsolved.^[18]

References

^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h The Spokesman-Review & July 1, 1960.
^ Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 1.
^ Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, pp. 1–2.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 2.
^ ^a ^b ^c The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'" & July 1, 1960.
^ ^a ^b ^c Reading Eagle & June 1, 1960, p. 1.
^ Reading Eagle & June 1, 1960, p. 39.
^ ^a ^b ^c The Victoria Advocate & July 1, 1960, p. 12.
^ "FAA Registry (N8225H)". Federal Aviation Administration.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f The Free Lance-Star & July 1, 1960.
^ Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, Supplemental Data, p 1.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e Lawrence Daily Journal-World & July 1, 1960.
^ ^a ^b ^c Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 7.
^ ^a ^b The Victoria Advocate & July 1, 1960, p. 1.
^ ^a ^b The Sydney Morning Herald & July 1, 1960.
^ Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, Supplemental Data, p 3.
^ ^a ^b Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 3.
^ ^a ^b Steelman 2010.
^ ^a ^b Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 8.
^ ^a ^b Nessen 1960.
^ ^a ^b ^c Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 10.
^ Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, pp. 8–9.
^ ^a ^b ^c Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 9.
^ ^a ^b ^c The Age 1960.
^ ^a ^b ^c Kentucky New Era 1960, p. 1.
^ Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, pp. 9–10.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 11.
^ Haughland 1960.
^ ^a ^b ^c Bennett 1960.
^ Reading Eagle & June 1, 1960.
^ The Deseret News & August 1, 1960.
^ ^a ^b Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 12.
^ Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, pp. 1, 12.

Bibliography

"34 Dead in U.S. Plane Crash". The Sydney Morning Herald. Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Australian Associated Press. January 7, 1960. p. 1. Retrieved November 24, 2013.
"34 Lose Lives in Airliner Crash". Reading Eagle. Reading, Pennsylvania. Associated Press. January 6, 1960. pp. 1, 39. Retrieved November 24, 2013.
"Airliner Showers Bodies to Earth in Mystery Blast". The Victoria Advocate. Victoria, Texas. Associated Press. January 7, 1960. pp. 1, 12. Retrieved November 24, 2013.
"Airline Pilots Claim Plane Tests Harmful". The Deseret News. Salt Lake City, Utah. UPI. January 8, 1960. p. A3. Retrieved November 23, 2013.
"Bombs Indicated in Two Air Disasters". The Age. Melbourne, Australia. Australian Associated Press. January 16, 1960. p. 4. Retrieved November 23, 2013.
"Cruel Twist of Fate Deals Death to 34". The Spokesman-Review. Spokane, Washington. Associated Press. January 7, 1960. p. 16. Retrieved November 24, 2011.
"Fate Dealt 'Death Hand' To 34 Aboard Airplane" (PDF). The Victoria Advocate. Victoria, Texas. Associated Press. January 7, 1960. p. 12. Retrieved July 26, 2014.
"Law Eyed To Prevent Plane Bombing". Kentucky New Era. Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Associated Press. January 13, 1960. p. 1. Retrieved November 24, 2011.
"Plane Victims Await Family Identification". The Free Lance-Star. Fredericksburg, Virginia. Associated Press. January 7, 1960. p. 3. Retrieved November 24, 2013.
"Rule Bomb Caused 34 Plane Deaths". The Milwaukee Sentinel. Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Associated Press. July 20, 1960. p. 5. Retrieved November 23, 2013.^{[permanent dead link‍]}
"Victims of Crash Placed in School". The Lawrence Daily Journal-World. Lawrence, Kansas. Associated Press. January 7, 1960. p. 1. Retrieved November 24, 2013.
Bennett, Jerry (January 21, 1960). "Theory Holds Disaster Accident, Not Bombing". Ottawa Citizen. Ottawa, Ontario. p. 34. Retrieved November 23, 2013.
Civil Aeronautics Board (July 19, 1960), Aircraft Accident Report, National Airlines Inc, Douglas DC-6B, N8225H, Near Bolivia, North Carolina, January 6, 1960 (PDF), Docket #SA-351. File # 1-0002, retrieved November 24, 2013 (text on Wikisource) - URL from .gov domain
Haughland, Vern (March 2, 1960). "Crash Clues Sifted, Then: 'Blast Came From Within'". The Miami News. Miami, Florida. p. 12C. Retrieved November 25, 2013.^{[permanent dead link‍]}
Nessen, Ronald (January 15, 1960). "FBI Probes Theory That Bomb Brought Air Crash". The Times-News. Hendersonville, North Carolina. UPI. pp. 1, 4. Retrieved November 23, 2013.
Steelman, Ben (January 5, 2010). "50 years later, locals recall mysterious circumstances of NAL Flight 2511 plane crash". Wilmington Star-News. Wilmington, North Carolina. Retrieved January 5, 2019.

External links

Accident description at the Aviation Safety Network

[FOOTNOTEThe_Spokesman-ReviewJuly_1,_1960-1] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h The Spokesman-Review & July 1, 1960.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19601-2] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 1.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19601–2-3] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, pp. 1–2.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19602-4] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 2.

[FOOTNOTEThe_Victoria_Advocate,_"Fate_Dealt_'Death_Hand'"July_1,_1960-5] The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'" & July 1, 1960.

[FOOTNOTEReading_EagleJune_1,_19601-6] Reading Eagle & June 1, 1960, p. 1.

[FOOTNOTEReading_EagleJune_1,_196039-7] Reading Eagle & June 1, 1960, p. 39.

[FOOTNOTEThe_Victoria_AdvocateJuly_1,_196012-8] The Victoria Advocate & July 1, 1960, p. 12.

[9] "FAA Registry (N8225H)". Federal Aviation Administration.

[FOOTNOTEThe_Free_Lance-StarJuly_1,_1960-10] ^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f The Free Lance-Star & July 1, 1960.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board1960Supplemental_Data,_p_1-11] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, Supplemental Data, p 1.

[FOOTNOTELawrence_Daily_Journal-WorldJuly_1,_1960-12] Lawrence Daily Journal-World & July 1, 1960.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19607-13] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 7.

[FOOTNOTEThe_Victoria_AdvocateJuly_1,_19601-14] The Victoria Advocate & July 1, 1960, p. 1.

[FOOTNOTEThe_Sydney_Morning_HeraldJuly_1,_1960-15] The Sydney Morning Herald & July 1, 1960.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board1960Supplemental_Data,_p_3-16] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, Supplemental Data, p 3.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19603-17] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 3.

[FOOTNOTESteelman2010-18] Steelman 2010.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19608-19] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 8.

[FOOTNOTENessen1960-20] Nessen 1960.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board196010-21] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 10.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19608–9-22] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, pp. 8–9.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19609-23] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 9.

[FOOTNOTEThe_Age1960-24] The Age 1960.

[FOOTNOTEKentucky_New_Era19601-25] Kentucky New Era 1960, p. 1.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19609–10-26] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, pp. 9–10.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board196011-27] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 11.

[FOOTNOTEHaughland1960-28] Haughland 1960.

[FOOTNOTEBennett1960-29] Bennett 1960.

[FOOTNOTEReading_EagleJune_1,_1960-30] Reading Eagle & June 1, 1960.

[FOOTNOTEThe_Deseret_NewsAugust_1,_1960-31] The Deseret News & August 1, 1960.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board196012-32] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, p. 12.

[FOOTNOTECivil_Aeronautics_Board19601,_12-33] Civil Aeronautics Board 1960, pp. 1, 12.

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-{{short description|1960 airplane crash}}
+{{short description|1960 airplane crash in North Carolina}}
-{{good article}}
+{{Good article}}
 {{Use mdy dates|date=November 2014}}
 {{Infobox aircraft occurrence
@@ Line 8: / Line 8: @@
 |date             = January 6, 1960
 |type             = Suspected suicide bombing
-|origin           = [[John F. Kennedy International Airport|Idlewild Airport]], [[New York City|New York, New York]]
+|origin           = [[John F. Kennedy International Airport|Idlewild Airport]], New York City
 |occurrence_type=Bombing
-|destination      = [[Miami, Florida]]
+|destination      = [[Miami, Florida]], United States
-|site             = [[Brunswick County, North Carolina|Brunswick County]], near [[Bolivia, North Carolina]], [[United States]]
+|site             = [[Brunswick County, North Carolina|Brunswick County]], near [[Bolivia, North Carolina]], United States
+|coordinates      = {{coord|34.0798|N|78.1805|W|region:US-NC|display=inline,title}}
 |occupants        = 34
 |passengers       = 29
 |crew             = 5
 |fatalities       = 34
 |survivors        = 0
-|aircraft_type    = [[Douglas DC-6]]B
+|aircraft_type    = [[Douglas DC-6|Douglas DC-6B]]
 |operator         = [[National Airlines (1934–1980)|National Airlines]]
 |tail_number      = N8225H
 }}
-'''National Airlines Flight 2511''' was a United States domestic passenger flight from [[New York City]] to [[Miami, Florida]].  On January 6, 1960, the [[Douglas DC-6]] serving the flight exploded in midair. The [[National Airlines (1934–1980)|National Airlines]] aircraft was carrying 5 crew members and 29 passengers, all of whom perished. The [[Civil Aeronautics Board]] investigation concluded that the plane was brought down by a [[bomb]] made of [[dynamite]]. No criminal charges were ever filed, nor was the blame for the bombing ever determined, though a suicide bombing is suspected. The investigation remains open today.
+'''National Airlines Flight 2511''' was a United States domestic passenger flight from [[New York City]] to [[Miami, Florida]].  On January 6, 1960, the [[Douglas DC-6]] serving the flight exploded in midair. The [[National Airlines (1934–1980)|National Airlines]] aircraft was carrying 5 crew members and 29 passengers, all of whom perished. The [[Civil Aeronautics Board]] investigation concluded that the plane was brought down by a [[bomb]] made of [[dynamite]]. No criminal charges were ever filed, nor was the blame for the bombing ever determined, though a [[suicide bombing]] is suspected. The investigation remains open.
 One of the victims was retired [[United States Navy|U.S. Navy]] Vice Admiral [[Edward Orrick McDonnell]], a [[Medal of Honor]] recipient and veteran of both World Wars.
-== Flight history ==
+==Flight history==
 [[National Airlines (1934–1980)|National Airlines']] New York-Miami route was usually flown by a [[Boeing 707]]{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}} as Flight 601.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=1}} On January 5, 1960, the 707 aircraft scheduled to fly to Miami was grounded due to cracks that were discovered in the [[cockpit]] [[windshield]].{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}} The windshield replacement procedure would take eight hours to perform, so National Airlines transferred the passengers of Flight 601 to two [[propliner]] aircraft it had in reserve.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|pp=1–2}}
-Passengers were boarded on these two replacement planes on a first-come, first-served basis. 76 passengers boarded a [[Lockheed L-188 Electra]].{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=2}}{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'"|July 1, 1960}} This aircraft flew to Miami and arrived safely.{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'"|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960|p=1}}
+Passengers were boarded on these two replacement planes on a first-come, first-served basis. Seventy-six passengers boarded a [[Lockheed L-188 Electra]].{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=2}}{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'"|July 1, 1960}} This aircraft flew to Miami and arrived safely.{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'"|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960|p=1}}
-The remaining 29 passengers boarded a [[Douglas DC-6]]B, which departed [[Idlewild Airport]] for Miami as Flight 2511.{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}} They were accompanied by two stewardesses, [[Pilot (aeronautics)|pilot]] Dale Southard, [[copilot]] Richard L. Hentzel, and [[flight engineer]] Robert R. Halleckson.{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960|p=39}} The plane departed New York at 11:52&nbsp;p.m. and was scheduled to arrive in Miami at 4:36&nbsp;a.m. on January 6.{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate|July 1, 1960|p=12}}
+The remaining 29 passengers boarded a [[Douglas DC-6|Douglas DC-6B]], which departed [[Idlewild Airport]] for Miami as Flight 2511.{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}} They were accompanied by two stewardesses, [[pilot (aeronautics)|pilot]] Dale Southard (45), [[copilot]] Richard L. Hentzel (31), and [[flight engineer]] Robert R. Halleckson (34).{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960|p=39}} The plane departed New York at 11:52&nbsp;p.m. and was scheduled to arrive in Miami at 4:36&nbsp;a.m. on January 6.{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate|July 1, 1960|p=12}}
-The aircraft, [[Aircraft registration|registration]] {{Airreg|N|8225H|,}} was described as being in good condition.{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}} It had four [[Pratt and Whitney]] R-2800 CB-16 engines and had accumulated 24,836 hours of flight time.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|loc=Supplemental Data, p 1}}
+The aircraft, [[aircraft registration|registration]] {{Airreg|N|8225H|,}} was described as being in good condition.{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}} It had four [[Pratt and Whitney]] R-2800 CB-16 engines and had accumulated 24,836 hours of flight time.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|loc=Supplemental Data, p 1}}
-'s flight plan called for it to fly south from New York to [[Wilmington, North Carolina]], where it would continue south over the Atlantic Ocean. It would fly south {{convert|550|mi|km}} over the ocean to [[Palm Beach, Florida]].{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate|July 1, 1960|p=12}} The crew maintained radio contact with National Airlines' radio controllers and air traffic control, reporting clouds and [[Instrument meteorological conditions|instrument flying conditions]].{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=2}} The crew checked in with [[Wilmington International Airport|Wilmington Airport]] at 2:07&nbsp;a.m.,{{sfn|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}} and later reported flying over the [[Carolina Beach]] [[radio beacon]] at 2:31&nbsp;a.m. This was the last radio contact with the airplane.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=2}}
+'s flight plan called for it to fly south from New York to [[Wilmington, North Carolina]], where it would continue south over the Atlantic Ocean. It would fly south {{convert|550|mi|km}} over the ocean to [[Palm Beach, Florida]].{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate|July 1, 1960|p=12}} The crew maintained radio contact with National Airlines' radio controllers and air traffic control, reporting clouds and [[instrument meteorological conditions|instrument flying conditions]].{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=2}} The crew checked in with [[Wilmington International Airport|Wilmington Airport]] at 2:07&nbsp;a.m.,{{sfn|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}} and later reported flying over the [[Carolina Beach]] [[radio beacon]] at 2:31&nbsp;a.m. This was the last radio contact with the airplane.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=2}}
-== Aftermath ==
+==Crash and recovery==
 After losing contact with the DC-6 aircraft, National Airlines, the [[United States Coast Guard]], and the [[United States Navy]] began an intensive search along the southeastern coast of the United States. The search was called off the following day, when National Airlines received word that there was a plane down in North Carolina.{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate|July 1, 1960|p=12}}
-At about 2:45&nbsp;a.m. a farmer, Richard Randolph, heard the sound of an engine cutting in and out, followed by tearing metal and an explosion. Later that morning, after his teenage son McArthur Randolph found airplane wreckage in one of father's fields, Richard Randolph drove to [[Bolivia, North Carolina]], which had the nearest phone.{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960|p=1}} He called Wilmington Airport to report the downed plane at approximately 7:00&nbsp;a.m.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=2}} When Highway Patrol officers responded, he led them to the crash site.{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960|p=1}}
+At about 2:45&nbsp;a.m. a farmer, Richard Randolph, heard the sound of an engine cutting in and out, followed by tearing metal and an explosion. Later that morning, after his teenage son McArthur Randolph found airplane wreckage in one of his father's fields, Richard Randolph drove to [[Bolivia, North Carolina]], which had the nearest phone.{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960|p=1}} He called Wilmington Airport to report the downed plane at approximately 7:00&nbsp;a.m.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=2}} When Highway Patrol officers responded, he led them to the crash site.{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960|p=1}}
 Bodies and wreckage were scattered over an area of {{convert|20|acre|ha|0}}{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}} covering farm fields, marshland, and pine forests.{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}}
-During the first day of search and rescue, investigators were able to locate 32 bodies of the 34 persons on board.{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}} One of the missing bodies was later found at the main crash site. The remaining body was found at Snow's Marsh, approximately {{convert|16|miles|km}} from the main site.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=7}}
+During the first day of search and rescue, investigators located 32 bodies of the 34 persons on board.{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}} One of the missing bodies was later found at the main crash site. The remaining body was found at Snow's Marsh, approximately {{convert|16|miles|km}} from the main site.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=7}}
 Initial reports speculated that the aircraft had disintegrated in mid-flight.{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate|July 1, 1960|p=1}} One newspaper reporter indicated that the largest piece of wreckage he observed was a portion of the wing.{{sfn|The Sydney Morning Herald|July 1, 1960}} A fragment of aluminum, believed to be a piece of the airplane's skin, was found on [[Kure Beach]], {{convert|25|mi|km}} from the rest of the wreckage.{{sfn|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate|July 1, 1960|p=1}}
-== Investigations ==
+==Investigations==
 [[File:Civil Aeronautics Board accident investigation report, National Airlines Flight 2511.pdf|page=15|thumb|right|Approximate flight path of Flight 2511, with the crash site, Kure Beach, and Snow's Marsh marked. Source: Civil Aeronautics Board report.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|loc=Supplemental Data, p 3}}]]
 The [[Civil Aeronautics Board]] (CAB), part of the [[Department of Transportation]], were the primary investigators into the crash of Flight 2511. The wreckage of the DC-6 was taken to a [[hangar]] at nearby [[Wilmington International Airport|Wilmington Airport]], where the fuselage was reassembled on a wood-and-[[chicken wire|chicken-wire]] frame. Investigators recovered approximately 90% of the fuselage, which was then assembled on the frame in the Wilmington hangar.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=3}}
-Investigators were able to identify the point of origin of the disintegration as an area immediately ahead of the leading edge of the aircraft's right wing. The material recovered from Kure Beach, including a portion of the wing fillet, was from this general area. Investigators were unable to recover material from an irregular, triangularly shaped area positioned above the leading edge and extending forward ahead of the wing.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=3}}
+Investigators identified the point of origin of the disintegration as an area immediately ahead of the leading edge of the aircraft's right wing. The material recovered from Kure Beach, including a portion of the [[wing root|wing fillet]], was from this general area. Investigators did not recover material from an irregular, triangularly shaped area positioned above the leading edge and extending forward ahead of the wing.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=3}}
-The bodies were taken to the local high school gymnasium to await [[autopsy]] and identification by a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprinting team.{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}} The [[Brunswick County, North Carolina|Brunswick County]] coroner{{sfn|Steelman|2010}} ordered autopsies of the passengers and crew to determine the specific cause of death for each.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=7}} One of the victims was [[Vice Admiral]] [[Edward Orrick McDonnell]], [[U.S. Navy]] (retired), a recipient of the [[Medal of Honor]] and a veteran of both World Wars.{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}} Other victims included a vice president of the Continental Bank of Cuba, a pharmacist, a student at the [[University of Miami]], and an insurance adjuster. Three of the victims had been [[Standby (air travel)|standby]] passengers and only made the flight due to others cancelling their reservations.{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'"|July 1, 1960}}
+The bodies were taken to the local high school gymnasium to await [[autopsy]] and identification by a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) fingerprinting team.{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}} The [[Brunswick County, North Carolina|Brunswick County]] coroner{{sfn|Steelman|2010}} ordered autopsies of the passengers and crew to determine the specific cause of death for each.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=7}} One of the victims was [[Vice Admiral]] [[Edward Orrick McDonnell]], [[U.S. Navy]] (retired), a recipient of the [[Medal of Honor]] and a veteran of both World Wars.{{sfn|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}} Other victims included a vice president of the Continental Bank of Cuba, a pharmacist, a student at the [[University of Miami]], and an insurance adjuster. Three of the victims had been [[standby (air travel)|standby]] passengers and only made the flight due to others cancelling their reservations.{{sfn|The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'"|July 1, 1960}}
-=== Julian Frank ===
+===Julian Frank===
 The only body not found at the main crash site was that of Julian Frank, a [[New York City]] lawyer. His body was recovered from Snow's Marsh,{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=8}} located on the west side of the [[Cape Fear River]].{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=7}} Frank's body had sustained significant injuries, including the amputation of both legs, and debris was embedded in his body. Frank's injuries were significantly different from and much more extensive than the other passengers'.{{sfn|Nessen|1960}} Furthermore, Frank's injuries were inconsistent with the type of injury usually incurred in an aircraft accident.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=10}}
-Frank was autopsied twice, the second time to recover debris embedded in his body.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=8}} The autopsy revealed that his lower extremities had been ripped off; his muscle tissue was extensively mutilated and torn; small pieces of wire, brass, and miscellaneous articles including a hat ornament were imbedded in various limbs; the fingers of his right hand were fractured and the bones splintered; and the [[Phalanx bone|distal phalanx]] of each finger on his left hand were missing. The coroner also observed numerous patches of blackened areas, similar to close-range [[gunshot residue]].{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|pp=8–9}} Four human finger bones were discovered among the wreckage at the primary crash site.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=9}}
+Frank was autopsied twice, the second time to recover debris embedded in his body.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=8}} The autopsy revealed that his lower extremities had been ripped off; his muscle tissue was extensively mutilated and torn; small pieces of wire, brass, and miscellaneous articles including a hat ornament were embedded in various limbs; the fingers of his right hand were fractured and the bones splintered; and the [[phalanx bone|distal phalanx]] of each finger on his left hand was missing. The coroner also observed numerous patches of blackened areas, similar to close-range [[gunshot residue]].{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|pp=8–9}} Four human finger bones were discovered among the wreckage at the primary crash site.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=9}}
-At the time of the crash, Frank had been accused of running a charity scam and was under investigation by the [[Manhattan]] [[district attorney]]'s office. It was alleged that he had misappropriated up to a million dollars in a series of scams.{{sfn|Nessen|1960}}
+At the time of the crash, Frank had been accused of running a charity scam and was under investigation by the [[Manhattan]] [[district attorney]]'s office. It was alleged that he had misappropriated up to a million dollars (roughly equivalent to ${{Inflation|US-GDP|1|1960
+|fmt=c|r=0}} million in {{inflation/year|US-GDP}} dollars) in a series of scams.{{sfn|Nessen|1960}}
-=== Bombing ===
+===Bombing===
-The crash of National Airlines Flight 2511 came shortly after the crash of another National Airlines plane.{{sfn|The Sydney Morning Herald|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|The Age|1960}} [[National Airlines Flight 967]] exploded over the Gulf of Mexico on November 16, 1959. The cause of the explosion was believed to be a bomb in the luggage of one of the passengers, Dr. Robert Spears, who enlisted a substitute to board the plane in his place. Spears was heavily insured, and the FBI indicated that his motive was insurance fraud. Similarly, Julian Frank was covered by almost $900,000 in [[life insurance]] policies,{{sfn|The Age|1960}}{{sfn|Kentucky New Era|1960|p=1}} including some purchased the day of the crash.{{sfn|The Age|1960}}
+The crash of National Airlines Flight 2511 came shortly after the crash of another National Airlines plane.{{sfn|The Sydney Morning Herald|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|The Age|1960}} [[National Airlines Flight 967]] exploded over the Gulf of Mexico on November 16, 1959. The cause of the explosion was believed to be a bomb in the luggage of one of the passengers, [[Robert Vernon Spears]], who enlisted a substitute to board the plane in his place. Spears was heavily insured, and the FBI indicated that his motive was insurance fraud. Similarly, Julian Frank was covered by almost $900,000 (roughly equivalent to ${{inflation|US-GDP|.9|1960
+|fmt=c|r=1}} million in {{inflation/year|US-GDP}} dollars) in [[life insurance]] policies,{{sfn|The Age|1960}}{{sfn|Kentucky New Era|1960|p=1}} including some purchased the day of the crash.{{sfn|The Age|1960}}
-The CAB sent the material recovered from Frank's body to the FBI laboratories for testing and analysis.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=9}} Analysis determined that the many wire fragments that were found embedded in Frank's body, in the seats on the right-hand side, and in the carpeting, were low-carbon steel wire, {{convert|0.025|in|mm}} in diameter.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|pp=9–10}} One of the dismembered fingers recovered from the wreckage had embedded in it the face plate of a travel alarm clock.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=9}} A life jacket from Kure Beach, found with parts of a flight bag embedded in it, tested positive for [[nitrate]] residue. A black "crusty" residue on Frank's right hand was found to be [[manganese dioxide]], a substance found in [[Electric battery#Dry cell|dry cell batteries]].{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=10}}
+The CAB sent the material recovered from Frank's body to the FBI laboratories for testing and analysis.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=9}} Analysis determined that the many wire fragments that were found embedded in Frank's body, in the seats on the right-hand side, and in the carpeting, were low-carbon steel wire, {{convert|0.025|in|mm}} in diameter.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|pp=9–10}} One of the dismembered fingers recovered from the wreckage had been embedded in the face plate of a travel alarm clock.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=9}} A life jacket from Kure Beach, found with parts of a flight bag embedded in it, tested positive for [[nitrate]] residue. A black "crusty" residue on Frank's right hand was found to be [[manganese dioxide]], a substance found in [[electric battery#Dry cell|dry cell batteries]].{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=10}}
 In addition to the evidence collected from Frank's body, there were also samples of residue taken from the air vents and hat rack located on the right side of the aircraft near the leading edge of the wing. These samples contained [[sodium carbonate]], [[sodium nitrate]], and mixtures of [[sodium]]-[[sulfur]] compounds.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=11}}
-The Civil Aeronautics Board concluded that the severity of Frank's injuries and the numerous particulates found embedded in his body could only be attributed to his proximity to an explosion.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=10}} Furthermore, the chemical compounds detected in the area around the explosion's point of origin were consistent with those generated by a dynamite explosion. The manganese dioxide samples collected from the seats near the focal point and from Frank's body indicated that a dry cell battery was located very near to the explosive. The CAB determined that, based on the blast pattern, a dynamite charge had been placed underneath the window seat of row 7.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=11}}
+The Civil Aeronautics Board concluded the severity of Frank's injuries and the numerous particulates found embedded in his body could only be attributed to his proximity to an explosion.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=10}} Furthermore, the chemical compounds detected in the area around the explosion's point of origin were consistent with those generated by a dynamite explosion. The manganese dioxide samples collected from the seats near the focal point and from Frank's body indicated a dry cell battery was located very near the explosive. The CAB determined, based on the blast pattern, a dynamite charge had been placed underneath the window seat of row 7.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=11}}
 The CAB's chief investigator, Oscar Bakke, testified before the [[United States Senate|Senate]] Aviation subcommittee to this effect on January 12, 1960. The same day, the FBI formally took over the criminal aspects of the investigation.{{sfn|Kentucky New Era|1960|p=1}}
-=== Other theories ===
+===Other theories===
 One of the first theories considered by investigators was that Flight 2511 was involved in a [[mid-air collision|collision]] with another airliner, given the crash site's proximity to Wilmington Airport. Investigators reviewed the [[flight plan]] and other documents to determine if other aircraft were in the area. There was no record of any other aircraft, or of any military missiles having been fired. Furthermore, wreckage of Flight 2511 was confined to two general locations, namely the primary crash scene near Bolivia and the secondary scene in Kure Beach. All debris was accounted for as belonging to the DC-6.{{sfn|Haughland|1960}}
 Another theory presented by an expert shortly after the crash theorized that an engine fire could have been the catalyst of the accident. Under this theory, one of the two engines on the right wing may have caught fire. Shrapnel from the engine may have punctured the [[fuselage]], causing [[explosive decompression]].
-Alternatively, Julian Frank, who was known to be desperately afraid of flying, may have panicked and hit the window, weakening it such that it subsequently blew out. Under this theory, the pilots and passengers would have been aware of an emergency aboard, which would have allowed them to begin making preparations for an emergency landing.{{sfn|Bennett|1960}} This theory was supported by the wide right turn that the aircraft appeared to make prior to disintegrating and crashing,{{sfn|Bennett|1960}} as well as the fact that some of the passengers were found wearing life jackets.{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Bennett|1960}}{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960}}
+Alternatively, Julian Frank, who was known to be desperately afraid of flying, may have panicked and hit the window, weakening it in such a manner it subsequently blew out. Under this theory, the pilots and passengers would have been aware of an emergency aboard, which would have allowed them to begin making preparations for an emergency landing.{{sfn|Bennett|1960}} This theory was supported by the wide right turn the aircraft appeared to make prior to disintegrating and crashing,{{sfn|Bennett|1960}} as well as the fact some of the passengers were found wearing life jackets.{{sfn|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}}{{sfn|Bennett|1960}}{{sfn|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960}}
-Though the bombing and engine fire theories were the most commonly held, other theories were advanced during the investigation as well. Several days after the explosion, National Airlines pilots who were members of the [[Airline Pilots Association]] sent a [[telegram]] to the [[Federal Aviation Administration]] (FAA). In the telegram, they made the claim that the routine proficiency flights performed by pilots caused unnecessary stress on the aircraft. These test flights, which pilots underwent every six months, required the pilots to put their aircraft through "violent maneuvers" which could damage the aircraft.{{sfn|The Deseret News|August 1, 1960}}
+Though the bombing and engine fire theories were the most commonly held, other theories were advanced during the investigation as well. Several days after the explosion, National Airlines pilots who were members of the [[Airline Pilots Association]] sent a [[telegram]] to the [[Federal Aviation Administration]] (FAA). In the telegram, they made a claim that the routine proficiency flights performed by pilots caused unnecessary stress on the aircraft. These test flights, which pilots underwent every six months, required the pilots to put their aircraft through "violent maneuvers" which could damage the aircraft.{{sfn|The Deseret News|August 1, 1960}}
-In their final report, the Civil Aeronautics Board indicated that it had investigated a variety of alternative theories, including:{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=11}}
+In their final report, the Civil Aeronautics Board indicated it had investigated a variety of alternative theories, including:{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=11}}
 * [[fatigue (material)|metal fatigue]] failure of the cabin leading to [[explosive decompression]]
-* a [[Propeller (aeronautics)|propeller]] blade failing, striking, and rupturing the cabin
+* a [[propeller (aeronautics)|propeller]] blade failing, striking, and rupturing the cabin
 * a malfunction in the cabin pressurization system leading to structural failure
 * a foreign object striking the plane and penetrating the cabin
@@ Line 90: / Line 94: @@
 * fuel vapor explosion
 * oxygen bottle explosion
-The CAB was, however, able to rule out each of these theories during the course of their investigation.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=11}}
+The CAB ruled out each of these theories during the course of their investigation.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=11}}
-=== Conclusions ===
+===Conclusions===
-The Civil Aeronautics Board concluded that Flight 2511 was brought down by a dynamite explosion in the passenger cabin. The explosive charge was located "beneath the extreme right seat of seat row No. 7." The report also pointed out that Julian Frank was close to the explosion, though it assigned no blame to him.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=12}}
+The Civil Aeronautics Board concluded Flight 2511 was brought down by a dynamite explosion in the passenger cabin. The explosive charge was located "beneath the extreme right seat of seat row No. 7." The report also pointed out that Julian Frank was close to the explosion, though it assigned no blame to him.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=12}}
-The explosion occurred at approximately 2:33&nbsp;a.m., significantly damaging the [[structural integrity]] of the aircraft and forcing it into a wide, right-hand turn. As it descended, it suffered an in-flight disintegration and crashed at 2:38&nbsp;a.m.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=12}}
+The explosion occurred at approximately 2:33&nbsp;a.m., significantly damaging the [[structural integrity]] of the aircraft and forcing it into a wide right-hand turn. As it descended, it suffered an in-flight disintegration and crashed at 2:38&nbsp;a.m.{{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960|p=12}}
 The CAB concluded in their final report:
@@ Line 102: / Line 106: @@
 The FBI assumed control of the criminal investigation on January 20, 1960.{{sfn|Kentucky New Era|1960|p=1}} The case remains open and unsolved.{{sfn|Steelman|2010}}
-== See also ==
+==See also==
-{{Portal|Aviation|United States}}
+{{Portal|Aviation|North Carolina}}
-* [[National Airlines Flight 967]]
+*[[Comair Flight 206]]
-* [[Continental Airlines Flight 11]]
+*[[Continental Airlines Flight 11]]
-* [[List of accidents and incidents involving airliners in the United States]]
+*[[List of accidents and incidents involving airliners in the United States]]
-* [[List of unsolved deaths]]
+*[[List of unsolved deaths]]
+*[[National Airlines Flight 967]]
-== References ==
+==References==
 {{Reflist|3}}
-=== Bibliography ===
+===Bibliography===
-* {{cite news|title=34 Dead in U.S. Plane Crash|agency=[[Australian Associated Press]]|newspaper=The Sydney Morning Herald|location=Sydney, New South Wales, Australia|date=January 7, 1960|page=1|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=dy9WAAAAIBAJ&sjid=QuYDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4313,2055319|access-date=November 24, 2013|ref={{SfnRef|The Sydney Morning Herald|July 1, 1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=34 Dead in U.S. Plane Crash |agency=[[Australian Associated Press]] |newspaper=The Sydney Morning Herald |location=Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |date=January 7, 1960 |page=1 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=dy9WAAAAIBAJ&sjid=QuYDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4313,2055319 |access-date=November 24, 2013 |ref={{SfnRef |The Sydney Morning Herald |July 1, 1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=34 Lose Lives in Airliner Crash|newspaper=Reading Eagle|location=Reading, Pennsylvania|agency=[[Associated Press]]|date=January 6, 1960|pages=1, 39|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=nQ4rAAAAIBAJ&sjid=q5sFAAAAIBAJ&pg=2239%2C1777067|access-date=November 24, 2013|ref={{SfnRef|Reading Eagle|June 1, 1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=34 Lose Lives in Airliner Crash |newspaper=Reading Eagle |location=Reading, Pennsylvania |agency=[[Associated Press]] |date=January 6, 1960 |pages=1, 39 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=nQ4rAAAAIBAJ&sjid=q5sFAAAAIBAJ&pg=2239%2C1777067 |access-date=November 24, 2013 |ref={{SfnRef |Reading Eagle |June 1, 1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Airliner Showers Bodies to Earth in Mystery Blast|newspaper=The Victoria Advocate|location=Victoria, Texas|agency=[[Associated Press]]|date=January 7, 1960|pages=1, 12|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=kgZIAAAAIBAJ&sjid=14AMAAAAIBAJ&pg=1910,2496332|access-date=November 24, 2013|ref={{SfnRef|The Victoria Advocate|July 1, 1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Airliner Showers Bodies to Earth in Mystery Blast |newspaper=The Victoria Advocate |location=Victoria, Texas |agency=[[Associated Press]] |date=January 7, 1960 |pages=1, 12 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=kgZIAAAAIBAJ&sjid=14AMAAAAIBAJ&pg=1910,2496332 |access-date=November 24, 2013 |ref={{SfnRef |The Victoria Advocate |July 1, 1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Airline Pilots Claim Plane Tests Harmful|agency=[[United Press International|UPI]]|newspaper=The Deseret News|location=Salt Lake City, Utah|date=January 8, 1960|page=A3|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=HwArAAAAIBAJ&sjid=dUgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5984,1275989|access-date=November 23, 2013|ref={{SfnRef|The Deseret News|August 1, 1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Airline Pilots Claim Plane Tests Harmful |agency=[[United Press International |UPI]] |newspaper=The Deseret News |location=Salt Lake City, Utah |date=January 8, 1960 |page=A3 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=HwArAAAAIBAJ&sjid=dUgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5984,1275989 |access-date=November 23, 2013 |ref={{SfnRef |The Deseret News |August 1, 1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Bombs Indicated in Two Air Disasters|agency=[[Australian Associated Press]]|newspaper=The Age|location=Melbourne, Australia|date=January 16, 1960|page=4|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=yJ4UAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Rq8DAAAAIBAJ&pg=5131,2502488|access-date=November 23, 2013|ref={{SfnRef|The Age|1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Bombs Indicated in Two Air Disasters |agency=[[Australian Associated Press]] |newspaper=The Age |location=Melbourne, Australia |date=January 16, 1960 |page=4 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=yJ4UAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Rq8DAAAAIBAJ&pg=5131,2502488 |access-date=November 23, 2013 |ref={{SfnRef |The Age |1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Cruel Twist of Fate Deals Death to 34|agency=[[Associated Press]]|date=January 7, 1960|page=16|newspaper=The Spokesman-Review|location=Spokane, Washington|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=RjNWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=tucDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7025,2048065|access-date=November 24, 2011|ref={{SfnRef|The Spokesman-Review|July 1, 1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Cruel Twist of Fate Deals Death to 34 |agency=[[Associated Press]] |date=January 7, 1960 |page=16 |newspaper=The Spokesman-Review |location=Spokane, Washington |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=RjNWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=tucDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7025,2048065 |access-date=November 24, 2011 |ref={{SfnRef |The Spokesman-Review |July 1, 1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Fate Dealt 'Death Hand' To 34 Aboard Airplane|agency=[[Associated Press]]|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=kgZIAAAAIBAJ&sjid=14AMAAAAIBAJ&pg=1069%2C2442047|format=PDF|access-date=July 26, 2014|newspaper=The Victoria Advocate|location=Victoria, Texas|date=January 7, 1960|pages=12|ref={{SfnRef|The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'"|July 1, 1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Fate Dealt 'Death Hand' To 34 Aboard Airplane |agency=[[Associated Press]] |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=kgZIAAAAIBAJ&sjid=14AMAAAAIBAJ&pg=1069%2C2442047 |format=PDF |access-date=July 26, 2014 |newspaper=The Victoria Advocate |location=Victoria, Texas |date=January 7, 1960 |pages=12 |ref={{SfnRef |The Victoria Advocate, "Fate Dealt 'Death Hand'" |July 1, 1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Law Eyed To Prevent Plane Bombing|agency=[[Associated Press]]|newspaper=Kentucky New Era|location=Hopkinsville, Kentucky|date=January 13, 1960|page=1|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=MeMrAAAAIBAJ&sjid=K2cFAAAAIBAJ&pg=6542,893838|access-date=November 24, 2011|ref={{SfnRef|Kentucky New Era|1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Law Eyed To Prevent Plane Bombing |agency=[[Associated Press]] |newspaper=Kentucky New Era |location=Hopkinsville, Kentucky |date=January 13, 1960 |page=1 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=MeMrAAAAIBAJ&sjid=K2cFAAAAIBAJ&pg=6542,893838 |access-date=November 24, 2011 |ref={{SfnRef |Kentucky New Era |1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Plane Victims Await Family Identification|agency=[[Associated Press]]|newspaper=The Free Lance-Star|location=Fredericksburg, Virginia|date=January 7, 1960|page=3|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=4kcRAAAAIBAJ&sjid=zooDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7194,296764|access-date=November 24, 2013|ref={{SfnRef|The Free Lance-Star|July 1, 1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Plane Victims Await Family Identification |agency=[[Associated Press]] |newspaper=The Free Lance-Star |location=Fredericksburg, Virginia |date=January 7, 1960 |page=3 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=4kcRAAAAIBAJ&sjid=zooDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7194,296764 |access-date=November 24, 2013 |ref={{SfnRef |The Free Lance-Star |July 1, 1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Rule Bomb Caused 34 Plane Deaths|agency=[[Associated Press]]|newspaper=The Milwaukee Sentinel|location=Milwaukee, Wisconsin|date=July 20, 1960|page=5|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=IwMkAAAAIBAJ&sjid=hg8EAAAAIBAJ&pg=2026,4630074|access-date=November 23, 2013|ref={{SfnRef|Milwaukee Sentinel|1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Rule Bomb Caused 34 Plane Deaths |agency=[[Associated Press]] |newspaper=The Milwaukee Sentinel |location=Milwaukee, Wisconsin |date=July 20, 1960 |page=5 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=IwMkAAAAIBAJ&sjid=hg8EAAAAIBAJ&pg=2026,4630074 |access-date=November 23, 2013 |ref={{SfnRef |Milwaukee Sentinel |1960}} }}{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}
-* {{cite news|title=Victims of Crash Placed in School|agency=[[Associated Press]]|newspaper=The Lawrence Daily Journal-World|location=Lawrence, Kansas|date=January 7, 1960|page=1|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=PDwyAAAAIBAJ&sjid=FeUFAAAAIBAJ&pg=4759,381956|access-date=November 24, 2013|ref={{SfnRef|Lawrence Daily Journal-World|July 1, 1960}}}}
+* {{cite news |title=Victims of Crash Placed in School |agency=[[Associated Press]] |newspaper=The Lawrence Daily Journal-World |location=Lawrence, Kansas |date=January 7, 1960 |page=1 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=PDwyAAAAIBAJ&sjid=FeUFAAAAIBAJ&pg=4759,381956 |access-date=November 24, 2013 |ref={{SfnRef |Lawrence Daily Journal-World |July 1, 1960}}}}
-* {{cite news|title=Theory Holds Disaster Accident, Not Bombing|last=Bennett|first=Jerry|newspaper=Ottawa Citizen|location=Ottawa, Ontario|date=January 21, 1960|page=34|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=g9gxAAAAIBAJ&sjid=eOQFAAAAIBAJ&pg=7601,1609622|access-date=November 23, 2013|ref=harv}} <!-- use {{sfn|Bennett|1960}} to reference -->
+* {{cite news |title=Theory Holds Disaster Accident, Not Bombing |last=Bennett |first=Jerry |newspaper=Ottawa Citizen |location=Ottawa, Ontario |date=January 21, 1960 |page=34 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=g9gxAAAAIBAJ&sjid=eOQFAAAAIBAJ&pg=7601,1609622 |access-date=November 23, 2013}} <!-- use {{sfn|Bennett|1960}} to reference -->
-* {{citation|title=Aircraft Accident Report, National Airlines Inc, Douglas DC-6B, N8225H, Near Bolivia, North Carolina, January 6, 1960|date=July 19, 1960|author=Civil Aeronautics Board|author-link=Civil Aeronautics Board|publisher=Docket #SA-351. File # 1-0002|url=http://www.airsafe.com/plane-crash/national-airlines-flight-2511-1960.pdf|format=PDF|access-date=November 24, 2013}} ([[wikisource:Aircraft Accident Report: National Airlines Flight 2511|on Wikisource]])<!-- use {{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960}} to reference -->
+* {{citation|title=Aircraft Accident Report, National Airlines Inc, Douglas DC-6B, N8225H, Near Bolivia, North Carolina, January 6, 1960|date=July 19, 1960|author=Civil Aeronautics Board|author-link=Civil Aeronautics Board|publisher=Docket #SA-351. File # 1-0002|url=http://www.airsafe.com/plane-crash/national-airlines-flight-2511-1960.pdf|access-date=November 24, 2013}} ([[Wikisource:Aircraft Accident Report: National Airlines Flight 2511|text on Wikisource]]) - [https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/33637 URL from .gov domain]<!-- use {{sfn|Civil Aeronautics Board|1960}} to reference , old URL is https://web.archive.org/web/20200216104636/https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/33637/dot_33637_DS1.pdf -->
-* {{cite news|last=Haughland|first=Vern|title=Crash Clues Sifted, Then: 'Blast Came From Within'|newspaper=The Miami News|location=Miami, Florida|date=March 2, 1960|page=12C|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=DVVVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=BD8NAAAAIBAJ&pg=2763,904900|access-date=November 25, 2013|ref=harv}}
+* {{cite news |last=Haughland |first=Vern |title=Crash Clues Sifted, Then: 'Blast Came From Within' |newspaper=The Miami News |location=Miami, Florida |date=March 2, 1960 |page=12C |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=DVVVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=BD8NAAAAIBAJ&pg=2763,904900 |access-date=November 25, 2013 }}{{Dead link|date=August 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}
-* {{cite news|title=FBI Probes Theory That Bomb Brought Air Crash|last=Nessen|first=Ronald|agency=[[United Press International|UPI]]|newspaper=The Times-News|location=Hendersonville, North Carolina|date=January 15, 1960|pages=1, 4|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=0gEaAAAAIBAJ&sjid=SCMEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6041,623967|access-date=November 23, 2013|ref=harv}}
+* {{cite news |title=FBI Probes Theory That Bomb Brought Air Crash |last=Nessen |first=Ronald |agency=[[United Press International |UPI]] |newspaper=The Times-News |location=Hendersonville, North Carolina |date=January 15, 1960 |pages=1, 4 |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=0gEaAAAAIBAJ&sjid=SCMEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6041,623967 |access-date=November 23, 2013}}
-* {{cite news|title=50 years later, locals recall mysterious circumstances of NAL Flight 2511 plane crash|last=Steelman|first=Ben|date=January 5, 2010|location=[[Wilmington, North Carolina]]|newspaper=Wilmington Star-News|url=http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20100105/ARTICLES/1054003/0/VIDEO?p=all&tc=pgall&tc=ar|access-date=January 5, 2019|ref=harv}}
+* {{cite news |title=50 years later, locals recall mysterious circumstances of NAL Flight 2511 plane crash |last=Steelman |first=Ben |date=January 5, 2010 |location=[[Wilmington, North Carolina]] |newspaper=Wilmington Star-News |url=https://www.starnewsonline.com/story/news/2010/01/05/50-years-later-locals-recall-mysterious-circumstances-of-nal-flight-2511-plane-crash/30818419007/ |access-date=January 5, 2019}}
 ==External links==
-{{wikisource|Aircraft Accident Report: National Airlines Flight 2511}}
+{{Wikisource|Aircraft Accident Report: National Airlines Flight 2511}}
 * {{ASN accident|id=19600106-0}}
-* [http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=vcsr&GSvcid=89697 List of National Airlines Flight 2511 victims] on [[Find a Grave]]
-{{coord|34.0798|N|78.1805|W|region:US-NC|display=title}}
 {{Aviation accidents and incidents in 1960}}
+{{Aviation accidents and incidents in the United States in the 1960s}}
+{{National Airlines (1934–1980)}}
-[[Category:1960 in North Carolina]]
-[[Category:1960 murders in the United States]]
-[[Category:20th-century mass murder in the United States]]
 [[Category:Accidents and incidents involving the Douglas DC-6]]
 [[Category:Airliner accidents and incidents in North Carolina]]
 [[Category:Airliner bombings in the United States]]
-[[Category:Aviation accidents and incidents in the United States in 1960]]
 [[Category:Brunswick County, North Carolina]]
-[[Category:Crimes in North Carolina]]
-[[Category:Disasters in North Carolina]]
-[[Category:January 1960 events]]
-[[Category:Mass murder in 1960]]
 [[Category:Murder in North Carolina]]
 [[Category:Murder–suicides in the United States]]
-[[Category:National Airlines accidents and incidents|2511]]
+[[Category:National Airlines (1934–1980) accidents and incidents|2511]]
 [[Category:Suicide bombings in the United States]]
 [[Category:Unsolved airliner bombings]]
 [[Category:Unsolved mass murders in the United States]]
+[[Category:1960 in North Carolina]]
+[[Category:1960 murders in the United States]]
+[[Category:Mass murder in the United States in the 1960s]]
+[[Category:Aviation accidents and incidents in the United States in 1960]]
+[[Category:January 1960 events in the United States]]
+[[Category:Mass murder in 1960]]
+[[Category:Improvised explosive device bombings in the 1960s]]

v t e Aviation accidents and incidents in the United States and U.S. territories in the 1960s
1960	National Airlines Flight 2511 (January 6 1960) Capital Airlines Flight 20 (January 18 1960) Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 710 (March 1960) Chicago Helicopter Airways Flight 698 (July 1960) World Airways Flight 830 (September 1960)* Eastern Air Lines Flight 375 (October 4 1960) Cal Poly football team (October 29 1960) New York mid-air collision (December 1960)
1961	Goldsboro B-52 crash (January 24 1961) American Airlines Flight 1502 (January 28 1961) Yuba City B-52 crash (March 1961) United Air Lines Flight 859 (July 11 1961) Alaska Airlines Flight 779 (July 21 1961) TWA Flight 529 (September 1 1961) Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 706 (September 17 1961) Imperial Airlines Flight 201/8 (November 8 1961) Cincinnati Zantop DC-4 crash (November 14 1961)
1962	American Airlines Flight 1 (March 1962) Continental Airlines Flight 11 (May 1962) Canadian Pacific Air Lines Flight 301 (July 1962) United Air Lines Flight 297 (November 23 1962) Eastern Air Lines Flight 512 (November 30 1962)
1963	Elephant Mountain B-52 (January 1963) Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 705 (February 1963) Camden PA-24 (March 1963) Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 293 (June 1963) Mohawk Airlines Flight 112 (July 1963) Pan Am Flight 214 (December 1963)
1964	Savage Mountain B-52 crash (January 1964) Eastern Air Lines Flight 304 (February 1964) Paradise Airlines Flight 901A (March 1964) Pacific Air Lines Flight 773 (May 1964) United Air Lines Flight 823 (July 1964) Bonanza Air Lines Flight 114 (November 1964) Flying Tiger Line Flight 282 (December 1964)
1965	USAF KC-135 Wichita (January 1965) Eastern Air Lines Flight 663 (February 1965) Pan Am Flight 843 (June 1965) Continental Airlines Flight 12 (July 1 1965) Allegheny Airlines Flight 604 (July 23 1965) United Air Lines Flight 389 (August 1965) American Airlines Flight 383 (November 8 1965) United Air Lines Flight 227 (November 11 1965) Carmel mid-air collision (December 1965)
1966	NASA T-38 crash (February 1966) American Flyers Airline Flight 280/D (April 1966) Braniff International Airways Flight 250 (August 1966) West Coast Airlines Flight 956 (October 1966)
1967	Lake Central Airlines Flight 527 (March 5 1967) TWA Flight 553 (March 9 1967) West Coast Airlines Flight 720 (March 10 1967) Delta Air Lines Flight 9877 (March 30 1967) Mohawk Airlines Flight 40 (June 1967) Piedmont Airlines Flight 22 (July 1967) Lake Erie skydiving disaster (August 1967) TWA Flight 159 (November 6 1967) X-15 Flight 3-65-97 (November 15 1967) TWA Flight 128 (November 20 1967)
1968	Ozark Air Lines Flight 965 (March 1968) Braniff International Airways Flight 352 (May 3 1968) Los Angeles Airways Flight 841 (May 22 1968) Los Angeles Airways Flight 417 (August 1968) Northeast Airlines Flight 946 (October 1968) Japan Air Lines Flight 2 (November 22 1968) Pan Am Flight 281 (November 24 1968) Wien Consolidated Airlines Flight 55 (December 2 1968) Allegheny Airlines Flight 736 (December 24 1968) Pan Am Flight 799 (December 26 1968) Ozark Air Lines Flight 982 (December 27 1968) North Central Airlines Flight 458 (December 27 1968)
1969	Allegheny Airlines Flight 737 (January 6 1969) Scandinavian Airlines System Flight 933 (January 13 1969) United Air Lines Flight 266 (January 18 1969) Hawthorne Nevada Airlines Flight 708 (February 1969) Prinair Flight 277 (March 5 1969)* Delta Air Lines Flight 821 (March 25 1969) TWA Flight 5787 (July 1969) Newton Cessna 172 crash (August 1969) Allegheny Airlines Flight 853 (September 1969) Mohawk Airlines Flight 411 (November 1969)
This list is incomplete. An asterisk (*) denotes an incident that took place in a U.S. territory. 1950–1959 ◄ 1960–1969 ► 1970–1979