Lured from the cockpit, they went down fighting.
 

Another take on this from the Washington Post -- "Passenger's Actions May have Helped Curb Tragedy"
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn...2001Sep12.html

Just heard on the news that some wreckage has been found about 6 miles away from the main one, raising speculation that there might have been a shoot down.

Gordo: Which flight are you referring to?

It always seemed likely to me that the aircraft crashed because either the crew or the pax fought back,and tragically were unable to regain control. Their story took a back seat to other horrors unfolding - naturally enough. But I hope that one day we will hear from the CVR/FDR just how incredibly brave they were,how much more destruction they prevented,and how nearly they made it. God bless every victim on those four flights,but particularly the ones who fought back.

I was just reading on our company websight that our national jumpseat coordinator was working with the FAA concerning the policy on jumpseats. I know that jumpseaters are a double edged sword, but I couldn't help thinking that a jumpseater would be a source of help in a fight.

more likely the aircraft was overstressed by a controll input during the struggle.

Wino