B-50 Superfortress shot down over Soviet territory

2 fatalities • Sinanju, North Korea • Flight

A heavy bomber was intercepted and downed by a Soviet MiG-15 during flight, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries.

What happened

While maintaining a cruising altitude of approximately 7,200 meters, a B-50 Superfortress was targeted by a Soviet Air Force MiG-15. The engagement initiated an uncontrolled descent, causing the aircraft to plummet toward the earth. As the plane entered its dive, the structural integrity of the airframe failed, leading to partial mid-air disintegration and the loss of all four engines.

The heavy bomber eventually impacted a field during the descent. Of the personnel on board, two crew members lost their lives in the accident. The remaining 11 others survived the crash with various injuries but were subsequently taken into prisoner of war status.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the primary reason for the loss of the aircraft was an aerial attack carried out by a pilot operating a Soviet MiG-15.

Probable cause

The aircraft was intercepted and shot down by a Soviet MiG-15 fighter.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-07-04 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Sinanju, North Korea?

A heavy bomber was intercepted and downed by a Soviet MiG-15 during flight, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1952-07-04 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1952-07-04 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 44-61727, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Sinanju, North Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was intercepted and shot down by a Soviet MiG-15 fighter.

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