Accident Overview
Shortly after takeoff from Lajes Airbase, a heavy bomber experienced a loss of control during initial climb. The aircraft went out of control and crashed into the sea a few hundred yards offshore, resulting in no survivors among the 16 occupants.
Flight Details
The bomber was performing a flight from the United Kingdom to Florida, with an intermediate stop at Lajes in the Azores Islands for refueling. The occupants were returning home for Christmas after a three-month period of training in England.
Official Findings
The probable cause of the accident, as stated in the official investigation, was loss of control shortly after rotation due to strong winds.