Dallas Air Show Tragedy: B-17 and P-63 Collide Mid-Air

In November 2022, a commemorative air show in Dallas turned to heartbreak when two vintage World War II aircraft — a B-17 Flying Fortress and a P-63 Kingcobra — collided during flight. The mid-air crash happened in front of thousands of stunned spectators and resulted in the loss of all crew members aboard both planes.

The demonstration had been part of a Heritage Flight honoring America’s aviation past. The B-17, a legendary heavy bomber from WWII, was flying alongside the P-63 Kingcobra, a rare fighter built during the same era. As the aircraft crossed paths, the P-63 struck the bomber, causing both to break apart and plummet to the ground in flames. Debris scattered across the area as families, veterans, and aviation fans looked on in shock.

Investigations and Findings
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) immediately opened an investigation into the cause of the collision. Early reports pointed to concerns about flight coordination and spacing during the maneuver. The inquiry later confirmed that six lives were lost in the accident, all of them crew members who had volunteered their time to keep aviation history alive.

Honoring the Crew
The tragedy deeply shook the aviation community, especially those dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of WWII aircraft. Tributes poured in nationwide, remembering the fallen as skilled pilots, selfless volunteers, and guardians of living history. Memorials were held to honor their dedication to educating future generations through flight demonstrations.

A Lasting Legacy and Call for Safety
The Dallas crash also renewed debate over the safety of flying vintage planes in public shows. While air demonstrations remain a cherished tradition, the accident raised serious questions about the risks of operating aircraft more than 75 years old. Since then, aviation leaders and federal regulators have urged stricter oversight and safety measures to better protect crews and audiences at future events.

The memory of those lost in Dallas now stands as both a tribute to their passion and a reminder of the importance of balancing history with safety in the skies.