Dallas Air Show Tragedy: Remembering the 2022 Mid-Air Collision
In November 2022, what began as a celebration of aviation heritage turned into one of the most tragic moments in recent air show history. During the Wings Over Dallas Airshow, a commemorative event honoring the rich history of World War II aviation, two vintage aircraft collided in mid-air before thousands of spectators.
The crash involved a B-17 Flying Fortress, one of the most legendary bombers of World War II, and a Bell P-63 Kingcobra, a rare fighter from the same era. Within seconds, both planes were destroyed and all six crew members aboard lost their lives.
The tragedy not only shook the Dallas community but also raised urgent questions about air show safety, flight coordination, and the future of flying historic aircraft.
What Happened That Day
The Heritage Flight demonstration was meant to showcase the power and elegance of WWII-era warbirds. Families, veterans, and aviation enthusiasts gathered to witness the nostalgic display.
As the formation progressed, the P-63 fighter crossed paths with the B-17 bomber, striking it mid-air. The bomber split apart almost instantly, sending debris crashing to the ground near the airport.
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