Loss of B-52 bomber near Nampo

14 fatalities • Nampo, North Korea • Flight

A heavy bomber disappeared over the Yellow Sea while approaching the North Korean coastline, resulting in the loss of all 14 crew members.

What happened

During a flight departing from Kadena Airbase, a B-52 heavy bomber experienced a catastrophic loss of control while nearing the coast of North Korea. The aircraft descended into the Yellow Sea at a location situated a few kilometers from Nampo. Following the impact, search efforts were unable to locate any wreckage or debris from the plane. All 14 crew members on board were lost in the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the disappearance suggest that the incident was triggered by a mechanical malfunction involving one of the engines. It is believed that propeller blades separated from an engine during flight and struck the aircraft's fuselage, leading to the subsequent crash.

Probable cause

The detachment of propeller blades from an engine during flight caused structural damage to the fuselage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-01-23 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Nampo, North Korea?

A heavy bomber disappeared over the Yellow Sea while approaching the North Korean coastline, resulting in the loss of all 14 crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1952-01-23 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 14 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1952-01-23 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 44-87734, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Nampo, North Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?