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4 fatalities

1974-12-12: Boeing B-52 Stratofortress (55-0058) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Andersen AFB, Guam Island

Andersen AFB, Guam IslandLanding (descent or approach)

On December 12, 1974, a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress (registration 55-0058) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Andersen AFB, Guam Island during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the loss of control was the consequence of a malfunction of the gyros after the electrical system failed. 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 1781230831Data APIEditorial standards

A U.S. Air Force aircraft crashed into the sea about seven miles southeast of Andersen AFB, Guam, while returning from a night training mission. Four crew members were killed; two were rescued.

Accident Overview

A U.S. Air Force aircraft crashed into the sea approximately seven miles southeast of Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, while returning from a night training mission. The aircraft sank and was lost. Of the six crew members on board, four were killed and two were rescued.

Crew

The crew consisted of six individuals: Captain Stephen R. Roseman (pilot), Jack Watson (co-pilot), Robert W. Nemeth, Captain Leroy E. Pitman, John Y. Whitley, and Brad Lee Buske. Five of the six crew members are marked with † in official records, indicating fatalities.

Investigation and Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the loss of control was believed to be the consequence of a malfunction of the gyros after the electrical system failed.

Related events

Same operator

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