What happened
During a local training flight departing from Randolph Air Force Base, a B-52 bomber experienced a critical mechanical failure. While the aircraft was performing a controlled approach, the starboard engine ignited, resulting in an onboard fire.
In response to the emergency, the crew attempted to evacuate the aircraft while it was still airborne. During the descent, the plane plummeted into the Northcliffe area, a suburb located northeast of San Antonio. The accident resulted in three fatalities and five survivors. Among those who perished, the investigation noted that some crew members deployed their parachutes prematurely, which caused them to become trapped within the descending bomber.
Findings
- An engine fire occurred on the right side of the aircraft during the approach phase.
- The rapid descent and subsequent impact were exacerbated by the premature deployment of parachutes by some crew members.