Michael Chertoff recounts FBI response during September 11 attacks

Former Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff has provided reflections on the internal response during the September 11 attacks. Chertoff recounted his initial reaction to the first plane hitting the World Trade Center, noting that he initially suspected a pilot error before a second plane strike confirmed the nation was under attack.

During his time at the FBI's Intelligence Operations Center, Chertoff recalled hearing orders to shoot down a fourth aircraft. However, he noted that the aircraft in question did not fall due to military action, but rather because of the heroism of passengers who sacrificed themselves. He also highlighted the immediate fears among security experts regarding the possibility of subsequent chemical or biological attacks.