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4 fatalities

Training aircraft crash at Biggs Air Force Base (45-21794)

Biggs AAF (El Paso), United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On November 20, 1953, a Boeing B-29 Superfortress (registration 45-21794) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Biggs AAF (El Paso), United States of America during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft entered a stall during the final approach phase of a training exercise. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A training flight ended in a fatal accident during the final approach phase at Biggs Air Force Base, resulting in multiple casualties.

What happened

During a scheduled local training mission conducted at Biggs Air Force Base, an aircraft experienced a catastrophic loss of control. As the crew was executing the short final stage of their approach, the airplane entered a stall condition. This aerodynamic failure led to a subsequent crash upon impact with the ground. The force of the collision caused the airframe to ignite, resulting in a post-crash fire.

Findings

  • The accident occurred during the landing phase of flight.
  • The primary factor leading to the crash was an aerodynamic stall while on short final.
  • The incident resulted in four fatalities among the crew members.
  • Additionally, five injuries were reported following the impact and subsequent fire.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a stall during the final approach phase of a training exercise.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Nov 1953 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Biggs AAF (El Paso), United States of America?

A training flight ended in a fatal accident during the final approach phase at Biggs Air Force Base, resulting in multiple casualties.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Nov 1953 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Nov 1953 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 45-21794, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Biggs AAF (El Paso), United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered a stall during the final approach phase of a training exercise.

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