5 fatalities

B-29 Superfortress takeoff abort results in fatal overrun (44-61712)

North Field AFB (Tinian Island), Northern Mariana IslandsTakeoff (climb)

On September 7, 1945, a Boeing B-29 Superfortress (registration 44-61712) operated by United States Army Air Forces - USAAF (1941-1947) was involved in an aviation accident near North Field AFB (Tinian Island), Northern Mariana Islands during takeoff. 5 people were 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

A heavy bomber aborted its takeoff roll for unknown reasons, overran the runway, and caught fire. Five crew members were killed and six injured during the incident.

What happened

During a takeoff attempt, the pilot initiated an abort of the roll for unknown reasons. The aircraft failed to stop within the available runway distance and overran the surface. Upon coming to rest off the airfield, the heavy bomber caught fire and was subsequently destroyed by the flames.

The accident resulted in significant casualties among the flight deck personnel. Five crewmen were killed in the incident, while six other members of the crew sustained injuries. The specific individuals who lost their lives included First Officer Joseph C. Cochran, First Lieutenant George E. Godsey, First Lieutenant Joseph A. Little, First Lieutenant Charles N. Roberts, and First Lieutenant Edward W. Williams.

Findings

The source material does not provide a detailed technical analysis or list of contributing factors beyond the initial decision to abort. The primary causal factor remains unidentified in the available records.