What happened
During a nighttime low-level mission in Montana, an aircraft crashed while performing maneuvers intended to train a new navigator and evaluate ground avoidance technology. The flight was executing a specific flight path known as the Flint Rock Oil Burner Run. While maintaining a level trajectory, the aircraft successfully bypassed an initial knoll situated at an elevation of 2550 feet.
However, the aircraft subsequently struck a second knoll located roughly 300 feet further along its flight path. The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate upon contact with the terrain. The wreckage was located in the vicinity of Jordan, approximately 60 miles south of Glasgow.
Findings
- The mission involved navigating two specific low-level entry points for training and equipment testing purposes.
- The accident occurred during the impact with terrain while the crew was operating at a low altitude.