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6 fatalities

Right Wing Separation in Flight Leads to Fatal Crash (56-0630)

Andersen AFB, Guam IslandTakeoff (climb)

On July 27, 1969, a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress (registration 56-0630) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Andersen AFB, Guam Island during takeoff. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believed that the right wing separated from the fuselage due to a structural failure. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During liftoff, the right wing separated from the aircraft. The airplane crashed back onto the runway, went out of control, and was destroyed by fire. All six crew members were killed.

Accident Overview

At the moment of liftoff, the right wing separated from the fuselage. The aircraft subsequently crashed back onto the runway, lost control, and was engulfed in flames. All six crew members aboard were killed.

Crew

The crew consisted of six members: Captain Edward William Wyatt (pilot), Captain John Anthony Albasio (copilot), Captain Donald Joseph Maccio (navigator), Captain Edward Anthony Miskowski (radio navigator), First Lieutenant Gary Paul Leach (electronic warfare officer), and Technical Sergeant Clinton Eugene Tibbetts (air gunner).

Investigation

The official investigation concluded that the right wing separated from the fuselage due to a structural failure. The probable cause was determined to be the in-flight separation of the right wing resulting from structural failure.

Structural failure

Related events

Same operator

More Boeing B-52 Stratofortress safety records →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Jul 1969 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident near Andersen AFB, Guam Island?

During liftoff, the right wing separated from the aircraft. The airplane crashed back onto the runway, went out of control, and was destroyed by fire. All six crew members were killed.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Jul 1969 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Jul 1969 involved a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, registration 56-0630, 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 right wing separated from the fuselage due to a structural failure.

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