What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Kelly AFB, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control. The flight path deviated significantly, leading to a high-impact crash less than one mile from the airfield perimeter. The collision resulted in a massive explosion and subsequent intense post-crash fire.
The impact forces and the resulting inferno completely destroyed the airframe. There were no survivors among the nine fatalities recorded during the incident. The crew on board consisted of various flight personnel, including instructors, student pilots, flight engineers, and radio operators.
Findings
Investigations into the accident determined that the primary reason for the loss of control was an asymmetric flap extension. This mechanical failure occurred immediately after liftoff, making the aircraft unstable during its most critical phase of ascent.