Night training accident at Ramey Air Force Base

7 fatalities • Ramey AFB (Aguadilla), Puerto Rico • Landing (descent or approach)

A military training flight ended in a fatal crash short of the runway during night maneuvers at Ramey AFB.

What happened

During a scheduled local training mission at Ramey Air Force Base in Aguadilla, an aircraft was performing a series of touch-and-go maneuvers. While executing an approach under nighttime conditions, the flight became uncontrollable and impacted the ground before reaching the runway.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were seven fatalities among the crew members on board during the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the aircraft experienced a loss of control. This instability was primarily attributed to an incorrect trim setting during the flight phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft became uncontrollable due to an improper trim configuration.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1960-02-01 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident near Ramey AFB (Aguadilla), Puerto Rico?

A military training flight ended in a fatal crash short of the runway during night maneuvers at Ramey AFB.

Were there any fatalities in the 1960-02-01 Boeing B-52 Stratofortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 7 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1960-02-01 involved a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, registration 58-0180, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Ramey AFB (Aguadilla), Puerto Rico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft became uncontrollable due to an improper trim configuration.

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