5 fatalities

Five Killed in Training Flight Crash Near RAF Coningsby (WF553)

Horncastle, United KingdomLanding (descent or approach)

On January 5, 1953, a Boeing B-29 Washington (registration WF553) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Horncastle, United Kingdom during landing or approach. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A training aircraft on a local mission from RAF Coningsby crashed during a third landing attempt in poor weather, killing five crew members and injuring two. The aircraft was destroyed.

Overview

A crew conducting a local training mission from RAF Coningsby for the 15th Squadron was involved in an accident during landing attempts. The aircraft crashed in a field near Horncastle, approximately 6 miles north of the airbase.

Sequence of Events

On final approach during the mission, the crew encountered poor weather conditions. The pilot-in-command decided to abandon the approach and initiated a go-around. A subsequent second attempt to land was also abandoned. During a third attempt to land, the aircraft was too low and struck the ground, resulting in the crash.

Casualties and Damage

The accident resulted in five crew members being killed. Two others sustained injuries, while five crew members were unhurt. The aircraft was destroyed.