B-52 crash near Monticello, Utah

1 fatality • Monticello, United States of America • Flight

A B-52 training flight crashed in a field near Monticello, Utah, after encountering severe turbulence at high altitude.

What happened

A training mission departed from Biggs AAF at 17:15 local time. While the B-52 was cruising at an altitude of 40,000 feet over the state of Utah, the aircraft encountered intense turbulence. This weather event resulted in significant structural damage to the airframe. Due to the deteriorating condition of the plane, the crew of seven initiated an emergency bailout procedure.

Following the departure of the crew, the uncontrolled B-52 descended rapidly and impacted a field situated near Monticello, Utah. The accident resulted in one fatality among the crew members, while the remaining six survivors were successfully rescued from the scene.

Probable cause

Extreme turbulence at high altitude led to structural failure of the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1961-01-19 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident near Monticello, United States of America?

A B-52 training flight crashed in a field near Monticello, Utah, after encountering severe turbulence at high altitude.

Were there any fatalities in the 1961-01-19 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1961-01-19 involved a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, registration 53-0390, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Monticello, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Extreme turbulence at high altitude led to structural failure of the aircraft.

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