1974-12-12: Boeing B-52 Stratofortress — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Andersen AFB, Guam Island

4 fatalities • Andersen AFB, Guam Island • Landing (descent or approach)

Probable cause

It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a malfunction of the gyros after the electrical system failed.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The crew was completing a night training mission out from Andersen AFB, Guam. While returning the airbase, control was lost and the airplane crashed into the sea about seven miles southeast of the airfield. Four crew members were killed while two others were rescued. The aircraft sank and was lost. Crew: Cpt Stephen R. Roseman, pilot, † Jack Watson, copilot, Robert W. Nemeth, † Cpt Leroy E. Pitman, † John Y. Whitley, † Brad Lee Buske.

Probable cause (official findings): It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a malfunction of the gyros after the electrical system failed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1974-12-12 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident near Andersen AFB, Guam Island?

The crew was completing a night training mission out from Andersen AFB, Guam. While returning the airbase, control was lost and the airplane crashed into the sea about seven miles southeast of the airfield. Four crew members were killed while two others were rescued. The aircraft sank and was lost. Crew: Cpt Stephen…

Were there any fatalities in the 1974-12-12 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1974-12-12 involved a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, registration 55-0058, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Andersen AFB, Guam Island.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a malfunction of the gyros after the electrical system failed.

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