B-29 Superfortress loss during bombing mission over Anju

1 fatality • Chinnampo, North Korea • Flight

A B-29 Superfortress was destroyed after being struck by enemy fire while conducting a bombing run near the Anju Marshaling Yard.

What happened

During a mission targeting the Anju Marshaling Yard, a B-29 Superfortress came under heavy fire from MiG-15 fighters just before its payload was released. Following the bomb release, the aircraft remained under attack and began to lose altitude. As the plane crossed the Taedong River near Chinnampo, the flight commander notified the crew that the third engine had caught fire.

In an attempt to save the remaining personnel, 12 of the 13 crew members successfully exited the aircraft via parachute. The burning bomber continued its flight path toward friendly territory, accompanied by US Air Force fighter escorts. Despite these efforts, the aircraft's descent continued until it impacted a mountainside and underwent a mid-air explosion.

Findings

Investigations into the loss of the aircraft determined that the primary factor was enemy interceptor fire which caused significant damage to the engines and subsequent loss of control.

Probable cause

The aircraft was shot down by MiG-15 fighters during a bombing mission.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1953-01-10 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Chinnampo, North Korea?

A B-29 Superfortress was destroyed after being struck by enemy fire while conducting a bombing run near the Anju Marshaling Yard.

Were there any fatalities in the 1953-01-10 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 1953-01-10 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 44-61802, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Chinnampo, North Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was shot down by MiG-15 fighters during a bombing mission.

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