Aircraft crash at Lajes Airport involving ammunition depot

11 fatalities • Lajes, Portugal • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft crashed into an ammunition storage facility near the runway threshold at Lajes Airport during a night approach.

What happened

While performing a nighttime approach to Lajes Airport in the Azores Islands, a four-engine aircraft experienced a loss of control. The descent resulted in the plane striking an ammunition depot situated close to the runway threshold.

The accident resulted in a significant loss of life, with 11 fatalities recorded among the occupants. Emergency responders were able to locate and rescue five members of the crew from the wreckage.

Findings

Official reports indicate that the primary factor leading to the loss of control was an engine failure during the approach phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a loss of control following the failure of one of its engines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1951-04-26 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Lajes, Portugal?

A four-engine aircraft crashed into an ammunition storage facility near the runway threshold at Lajes Airport during a night approach.

Were there any fatalities in the 1951-04-26 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 11 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1951-04-26 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 44-87704, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Lajes, Portugal.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a loss of control following the failure of one of its engines.

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