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Today in History: Alaska Airlines Flight 261 crashes in Pacific Ocean

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 31, 2000, Alaska Airlines Flight 261 crashed into the Pacific Ocean near Anacapa Island, California, after losing pitch control due to issues with its horizontal stabilizer. The flight, en route from Puerto Vallarta to Seattle with a stop in San Francisco, resulted in the tragic loss of all 88 passengers and crew on board.

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Story summary

On January 31, 2000, Alaska Airlines Flight 261 crashed into the Pacific Ocean near Anacapa Island, California, after losing pitch control due to issues with its horizontal stabilizer. The flight, en route from Puerto Vallarta to Seattle with a stop in San Francisco, resulted in the tragic loss of all 88 passengers and crew on board.