Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress accident at Huron, United States of America, 17 Feb 1943 (42-5080)
On February 17, 1943, a Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress (registration 42-5080) operated by United States Army Air Forces - USAAF (1941-1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Huron, United States of America in flight. 12 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that panels from the port wing detached in flight, leading to further degradation of the wing, resulting in the n°1 engine detaching and loss of control of the airplane. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
It was determined that panels from the port wing detached in flight, leading to further degradation of the wing, resulting in the n°1 engine detaching and loss of control of the airplane. Then panels from the starboard wing failed as well, causing the airplane to enter an uncontrolled descent.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
While cruising at a height of about 800 metres, the airplane suffered a structural failure. After the physical loss of engine n°1, the airplane entered an uncontrolled descent and crashed in a huge explosion near houses located in Huron. All 12 occupants were killed, among them three civilians. Crew: 1st Lt Oliver L. Walker, 2nd Lt Norman K. Mattice, 2nd Lt George J. Morris, 2nd Lt Howard D. Stevens Jr., S/Sgt Charles Missana, S/Sgt Michael Mitzka, S/Sgt James D. White, T/Sgt Gerald W. Baker, T/Sgt Charles R. Hoobery.
Probable cause (official findings): It was determined that panels from the port wing detached in flight, leading to further degradation of the wing, resulting in the n°1 engine detaching and loss of control of the airplane. Then panels from the starboard wing failed as well, causing the airplane to enter an uncontrolled descent.