Loss of aircraft over East China Sea during Korean War

12 fatalities • East China Sea, World • Flight

A military aircraft disappeared over the East China Sea after sustaining damage from an enemy fighter, resulting in the loss of all 12 crew members.

What happened

During the Korean War, a military aircraft was targeted and attacked by a MiG-15 fighter jet. The engagement left the aircraft with two engines inoperative, forcing the pilot to abandon the combat zone. The flight path was intended to lead back to Kadena Air Force Base located in Okinawa.

While the aircraft was transiting over the East China Sea, it became uncontrollable and plummeted into the ocean. Following the crash, a search was conducted, but no wreckage or debris from the plane was recovered. All 12 crew members on board were lost in the accident, and no traces of the personnel or the airframe were ever located.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the primary reason for the loss of the aircraft was the failure of both engines following an interception by an enemy fighter jet.

Probable cause

The aircraft suffered a dual engine failure after being struck by an enemy MiG-15 fighter.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1951-03-29 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near East China Sea, World?

A military aircraft disappeared over the East China Sea after sustaining damage from an enemy fighter, resulting in the loss of all 12 crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1951-03-29 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 12 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1951-03-29 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 45-21749, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at East China Sea, World.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft suffered a dual engine failure after being struck by an enemy MiG-15 fighter.

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