B-29 bomber accident at Seoul-Kimpo Airport

No fatalities • Seoul, South Korea • Landing (descent or approach)

A heavy bomber diverted to Seoul-Kimpo Airport following an aerial engagement, resulting in a runway excursion and collision with parked aircraft.

What happened

During a mission originating from Kadena Air Force Base in Okinawa, a B-29 heavy bomber was tasked with targeting bridge infrastructure spanning the Yalu River near the China-North Korea border. While conducting the mission, the aircraft encountered hostile action when it was intercepted and attacked by a Soviet Air Force MiG-15 fighter.

Following the engagement, the flight crew managed to navigate away from the combat zone but was forced to execute an emergency landing at Seoul-Kimpo Airport. Upon reaching the runway, the aircraft lost control during the landing phase, veering off the paved surface and striking multiple stationary aircraft parked near the airfield. The impact resulted in the B-29 being declared a total loss.

Findings

All 12 members of the flight crew were successfully evacuated from the wreckage. While there were no fatalities, the incident resulted in 3 injuries among the crew. The primary factor leading to the emergency diversion was the aerial attack by a Soviet fighter aircraft.

Probable cause

The aircraft was forced into an emergency landing following an interception and attack by a Soviet MiG-15.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1950-11-14 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Seoul, South Korea?

A heavy bomber diverted to Seoul-Kimpo Airport following an aerial engagement, resulting in a runway excursion and collision with parked aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 1950-11-14 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1950-11-14 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 44-61676, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Seoul, South Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was forced into an emergency landing following an interception and attack by a Soviet MiG-15.

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