1 fatality

Randolph AFB Training Flight Collision with Telecommunications Tower

Randolph AFB (Seguin), United States of AmericaFlight

On April 3, 1956, a Boeing B-29 Superfortress operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Randolph AFB (Seguin), United States of America in flight. One person was 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A low-altitude training aircraft struck a 160-foot telecommunications tower near Randolph AFB, crashing in a field in Selma. One crew member was killed, and five others escaped uninjured.

Incident Overview and Location Details A local training flight was being conducted at Randolph Air Force Base when the aircraft encountered a fatal accident. The incident occurred while the aircraft was operating at a low altitude and a speed of 140 mph. The wreckage was subsequently located in a field in Selma, which is situated north of the airbase. ## Collision and Aftermath During the low-altitude maneuver, the aircraft struck a telecommunications tower that stood 160 feet high. The impact caused the aircraft to crash into a field, where it immediately burst into flames. ## Casualties and Crew Information The accident resulted in one fatality among the flight crew. Five other crew members were able to escape the burning wreckage without sustaining injuries. The crew consisted of First Lieutenant L. R. Hildebrand and five additional personnel.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Apr 1956 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Randolph AFB (Seguin), United States of America?

A low-altitude training aircraft struck a 160-foot telecommunications tower near Randolph AFB, crashing in a field in Selma. One crew member was killed, and five others escaped uninjured.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Apr 1956 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Apr 1956 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Randolph AFB (Seguin), United States of America.