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The 1956 Grand Canyon Mid-Air Collision: Tragic Prelude to Aviation Reform

On June 30, 1956, two passenger planes collided over the Grand Canyon, resulting in no survivors and a devastating disaster that spurred significant changes in aviation safety regulations. This episode of 'History's A Disaster' with Andrew examines the circumstances leading to the collision between TWA Flight 2 and United Airlines Flight 718. The lack of radar coverage, inadequate air traffic control, and the challenges of early aviation technology are discussed, highlighting the human and technical factors that contributed to the tragedy. The aftermath, including public outcry and legislative changes that led to the formation of the FAA, is also explored. The site of the crash has since been declared a National Historic Landmark, cementing its place in aviation history.

00:00 The Grand Canyon Mid-Air Collision: An Overview
00:42 Setting the Scene: Air Travel in the 1950s
01:21 The Fateful Morning: June 30th, 1956
02:39 Flight Paths and Air Traffic Control Challenges
07:43 The Collision: A Tragic Encounter
11:16 Aftermath and Investigation
17:17 Impact on Aviation Regulations
21:46 Legacy and Memorial
22:15 Conclusion and Sign-Off

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