Aircraft overrun at Kadena Air Force Base

No fatalities • Kadena AFB, Japan • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a runway excursion following touchdown at Kadena Air Force Base, resulting in a post-crash fire and total hull loss.

What happened

During an arrival at Kadena Air Force Base, the flight crew encountered significant challenges attempting to decelerate the aircraft after making contact with the runway. Due to the inability to stop within the available runway length, the aircraft exited the paved surface and continued along the overrun area.

Following the excursion, the aircraft caught fire. Despite the intensity of the flames, all seven crew members successfully evacuated the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The incident resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the inability to stop the aircraft within the remaining runway distance after touchdown.

Probable cause

The crew was unable to decelerate the aircraft sufficiently before reaching the end of the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1968-12-03 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident near Kadena AFB, Japan?

An aircraft experienced a runway excursion following touchdown at Kadena Air Force Base, resulting in a post-crash fire and total hull loss.

Were there any fatalities in the 1968-12-03 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1968-12-03 involved a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, registration 55-0115, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Kadena AFB, Japan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew was unable to decelerate the aircraft sufficiently before reaching the end of the runway.

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