Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress accident at Biggs AAF (El Paso), United States of America, 26 Feb 1943 (42-29528)
On February 26, 1943, a Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress (registration 42-29528) operated by United States Army Air Forces - USAAF (1941-1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Biggs AAF (El Paso), United States of America during takeoff. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot stated to investigators that while following approximately 30 seconds behind another B-17 departing, he could not see the horizon after the end of runway lights. His vision followed the leading aircraft's lights and he began flying by instruments. 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
The pilot stated to investigators that while following approximately 30 seconds behind another B-17 departing, he could not see the horizon after the end of runway lights. His vision followed the leading aircraft's lights and he began flying by instruments. Apparently the lead's propeller turbulence had caused his aircraft to drift to the right, and not gaining elevation, the bomber flew into rising, rough terrain. Investigators noted that had the landing lights been used during takeoff, the accident may have been avoided.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
The airplane departed Biggs AFB on a night training exercise. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot lost control of the airplane that lot height and crashed near the airfield. Ten crew members were killed and the pilot was seriously injured. Crew: 2nd Lt Edward M. Kelley, pilot, F/O Charles G. Novak, copilot, † Sgt Victor A. Berreth, flight engineer, † S/Sgt Melvin P. Simms, assistant flight engineer, † 1st Lt James W. Bishop, navigator, † Sgt Adelbert J. Burke, radio operator, † Sgt Woodrow W. Erwin, assistant radio operator, † 2nd Lt Ernest F. Pasqua, bombardier, † S/Sgt Joseph P. Baucom, air gunner, † Sgt Robert M. Parchman, air gunner, † Sgt Howard T. Speak. †
Probable cause (official findings): The pilot stated to investigators that while following approximately 30 seconds behind another B-17 departing, he could not see the horizon after the end of runway lights. His vision followed the leading aircraft's lights and he began flying by instruments. Apparently the lead's propeller turbulence had caused his aircraft to drift to the right, and not gaining elevation, the bomber flew into rising, rough terrain. Investigators noted that had the landing lights been used during takeoff, the accident may have been avoided.