9 fatalities

Go-Around Stall Leads to Crash at Yokota AFB, Nine Crew Killed (44-86273)

Yokota AFB (Tokyo), JapanLanding (descent or approach)

On October 14, 1951, a Boeing B-29 Superfortress (registration 44-86273) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Yokota AFB (Tokyo), Japan during landing or approach. 9 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

After a combat mission with one engine inoperative, a military aircraft returning to Yokota AFB stalled during a go-around and crashed short of the runway, killing nine crew members and injuring five.

Introduction

A military aircraft returning to Yokota Air Force Base in Tokyo after a combat mission on the Korean War front experienced a fatal crash during a go-around attempt. The aircraft had been operating with one engine inoperative.

Flight Details

Upon returning from the combat mission, the aircraft approached Yokota AFB with one engine out. The pilot-in-command found the airplane unstable on final approach and decided to execute a go-around.

Final Approach and Crash

During the go-around, the aircraft stalled and crashed a few dozen yards short of the runway threshold. The impact destroyed the aircraft.

Crew Casualties

Nine crew members were killed in the crash, and five others were injured. The crew members listed are: Maj Lawrence W. Beal, 1st Lt Ralph L. Borum, Sgt Albert A. Hawkins, 1st Lt Warren L. Hildebrandt, Pvt Elijah Lewis, S/Sgt Philip W. Mantor, 1st Lt Kenneth C. Mason, S/Sgt William H. McNutt, Sgt Garnet R. Morris, 2nd Lt Marquis H. Oracion, 1st Lt Richard R. Stimer, 1st Lt Arthur A. Trautmann, Sgt Joe B. Whitener Jr., and 1st Lt Wesley A. Winston. Those killed are indicated with a dagger symbol in the source.