3 fatalities

Aircraft Crash Following Dual Engine Failure During Initial Climb (44-84124)

Iruma AFB (Johnson AFB), Sayama, JapanTakeoff (climb)

On January 31, 1951, a Boeing B-29 Superfortress (registration 44-84124) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Iruma AFB (Johnson AFB), Sayama, Japan during takeoff. 3 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

An aircraft crashed into a field five kilometers southeast of an airbase shortly after takeoff. Both right-side engines failed, leading to a stall. Three crew members died, and eight others sustained serious injuries.

Incident Overview

The incident occurred during the initial climb phase immediately following takeoff. The aircraft experienced a critical mechanical failure involving both engines on the right side of the fuselage, specifically identified as engine number three and engine number four.

Sequence of Events

Following the simultaneous failure of these two engines, the aircraft lost lift and entered an aerodynamic stall. This loss of control resulted in the aircraft descending rapidly and impacting the ground. The crash site was located in a field situated approximately five kilometers southeast of the originating airbase.

Casualties and System Failures

The impact resulted in significant casualties among the personnel on board. Three crew members lost their lives in the accident, while eight other individuals sustained serious injuries. Reports indicate that the aircraft's electrical system also failed during the event, compounding the mechanical issues experienced by the flight crew.