Fatal night training accident near Onaga, Kansas

2 fatalities • Onaga, United States of America • Flight

A heavy bomber crashed during a night training mission in Kansas, resulting in two fatalities and ten survivors.

What happened

During a nighttime training flight over Kansas, an unidentified heavy bomber experienced a critical loss of control. While operating near a field situated approximately 5.5 miles west of Onylga, the aircraft encountered an unforeseen emergency. In an attempt to manage the situation, the pilot directed the crew to execute a bailout procedure. The pilot subsequently attempted an emergency landing; however, the aircraft crashed and was destroyed by a large explosion.

Of the twelve people on board, two fatalities were recorded. One crew member died in the crash, while a second crew member perished because their parachute failed to deploy correctly. The remaining ten survivors were located at the scene following the impact.

Findings

  • The aircraft's destruction was caused by a massive post-impact explosion.
  • A failure in the parachute deployment mechanism contributed to one of the deaths.

Probable cause

The pilot lost control of the heavy bomber during an emergency landing attempt following an unexpected in-flight situation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1952-04-03 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Onaga, United States of America?

A heavy bomber crashed during a night training mission in Kansas, resulting in two fatalities and ten survivors.

Were there any fatalities in the 1952-04-03 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 1952-04-03 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 44-62164, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Onaga, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost control of the heavy bomber during an emergency landing attempt following an unexpected in-flight situation.

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