April 08

Events - Disasters & Accidents

1954day.year

A Royal Canadian Air Force Canadair Harvard collides with a Trans-Canada Airlines Canadair North Star over Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, killing 37 people.

A mid-air collision between a Royal Canadian Air Force Harvard trainer and a Trans-Canada Airlines North Star over Moose Jaw kills 37.
On April 8, 1954, a Royal Canadian Air Force Canadair Harvard collided mid-air with a Trans-Canada Airlines Canadair North Star over Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. The accident occurred during nighttime operations, severely limiting visibility and complicating flight paths. All 37 people aboard both aircraft—military trainees, pilots, and civilian passengers—lost their lives in the tragedy. The collision prompted immediate investigations into air traffic control protocols and communication procedures. Officials recommended new safety measures, including improved radar coverage and stricter flight separation rules. The Moose Jaw disaster remains one of Canada’s deadliest mid-air collisions, leading to lasting reforms in aviation safety standards.
1954 Harvard collides Trans-Canada Airlines Canadair North Star Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
1954day.year

South African Airways Flight 201: A de Havilland DH.106 Comet 1 crashes into the sea during night killing 21 people.

South African Airways Flight 201, a de Havilland Comet 1, crashes into the sea at night, killing all 21 aboard.
On April 8, 1954, Flight 201 operated by South African Airways crashed offshore shortly after takeoff during nighttime conditions. The de Havilland DH.106 Comet 1 plunged into the sea, killing all 21 passengers and crew on board. Investigators examined mechanical performance and structural integrity of the Comet, the world’s first commercial jet airliner. This accident contributed to mounting concerns about metal fatigue and design flaws in early jetliners. Subsequent Comet disasters led to a comprehensive review of aircraft engineering and the development of rigorous safety testing. These efforts ultimately improved the safety protocols for jet-powered passenger flights and shaped modern aviation standards.
South African Airways Flight 201 de Havilland DH.106 Comet 1
1968day.year

BOAC Flight 712 catches fire shortly after takeoff. As a result of her actions in the accident, Barbara Jane Harrison is awarded a posthumous George Cross, the only GC awarded to a woman in peacetime.

BOAC Flight 712 caught fire shortly after takeoff in 1968, and flight attendant Barbara Jane Harrison sacrificed her life saving passengers, earning a posthumous George Cross.
In 1968, BOAC Flight 712 experienced an engine fire moments after taking off from London Heathrow Airport. Flight attendant Barbara Jane Harrison braved thick smoke and blazing flames to guide passengers to safety. Despite her efforts, Harrison was overcome by smoke inhalation and died, but not before ensuring many lives were saved. She was posthumously awarded the George Cross, the highest civilian gallantry award for heroism in the United Kingdom. Her decoration remains the only George Cross bestowed to a woman in peacetime, honoring her selfless courage. Harrison’s story continues to inspire emergency responders and airline personnel worldwide.
1968 BOAC Flight 712 Barbara Jane Harrison George Cross