Circumstances of the Accident
The aircraft, a KC-135, departed Loring Air Force Base (AFB) on a training flight. While cruising at night along the United States–Canada border, an explosion occurred on board. The aircraft entered a dive and subsequently crashed in an open field near Carlingford, New Brunswick. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and all four crew members were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. A fuel pump in the aircraft ran dry and, after becoming overheated, ignited fuel vapor. This accident marked the fifth KC-135 incident attributed to similar causes. The investigation further highlighted that at least 1,500 liters of fuel must remain in all tanks to prevent fuel pump overheating.