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Today in History: DC-7B and F-89 Mid-Air Collision in Pacoima

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 31, 1957, a Douglas DC-7B operated by Douglas Aircraft collided mid-air with a U.S. Air Force Northrop F-89 Scorpion. The incident resulted in the aircraft crashing into the schoolyard of Pacoima Junior High School in Pacoima, California, marking a tragic event in aviation history.

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Story summary

On January 31, 1957, a Douglas DC-7B operated by Douglas Aircraft collided mid-air with a U.S. Air Force Northrop F-89 Scorpion. The incident resulted in the aircraft crashing into the schoolyard of Pacoima Junior High School in Pacoima, California, marking a tragic event in aviation history.