The FAA is calling for "appropriate well-defined procedures"  during aircraft demonstrations following an investigation into a deadly  midair collision of a Boeing B-17G and a Bell P-63F during a 2022  airshow in Texas. In a Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) issued on  Monday, the FAA detailed risk mitigation strategies for the civilian  airshow community. The SAFO was generated as a result of an  investigation into the November 12, 2022 crash involving a B17 and P63  during the Wings Over Dallas Airshow.

The SAFO referenced a preliminary NTSB report, noting that  although different types of aircraft were flying in close proximity,  "the NTSB preliminary report stated there were no altitude  deconflictions briefed before the flight or while the airplanes were in  the air. This accident highlights the complexity of mass aircraft  demonstrations, and the critical importance of safety protocols to  provide separation and enhance situational awareness."

APWO Staff and members were critically involved in the process of  defining the SAFO, in cooperation with the FAA and NTSB. Subject matter  experts were ingrained in the process to ensure that safe yet reasonable  guidance was issued, and we are pleased with the resulting language  which can be read on the FAA's website by clicking the button below.  We'd like to thank all of the APWO members who supported this effort to  provide legitimate, authoritative insight into the circumstances to  produce an accurate and timely response to maintain safer, more  professional Warbird Formation operations in the future.

Read the FAA SAFO