Engine explosion leads to aircraft crash near Yokosuka

No fatalities • Yokosuka, Japan • Flight

An engine failure and subsequent explosion forced the crew to abandon an aircraft, which crashed in a mountainous region west of Yokosuka.

What happened

During the flight, an engine on the aircraft experienced a fire that escalated into an explosion. Following this critical mechanical failure, the entire crew initiated an emergency bailout procedure. After the crew exited the plane, the aircraft entered a steep descent and struck the ground in a mountainous area situated approximately 7 km west of Yokosuka.

Despite the destruction of the aircraft upon impact, all 13 crew members survived the incident. No fatalities were reported among the personnel involved in the flight.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor leading to the crash was an engine explosion occurring while the aircraft was en route.

Probable cause

An engine fire and subsequent explosion during flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-01-29 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Yokosuka, Japan?

An engine failure and subsequent explosion forced the crew to abandon an aircraft, which crashed in a mountainous region west of Yokosuka.

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

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1952-01-29 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 45-21822, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Yokosuka, Japan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine fire and subsequent explosion during flight.

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