No fatalities

Crew Injured in Low-Altitude Approach Accident at Carswell (57-1466)

Carswell AFB (Fort Worth), United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 8, 1960, a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker (registration 57-1466) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Carswell AFB (Fort Worth), United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: For unknown reason, the crew continued the approach at an insufficient altitude. 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft returning from a refueling mission struck ground one mile short of runway in low visibility, injuring all seven crew members and destroying the aircraft.

Accident

During a return flight to Carswell after a refueling mission, the crew conducted an approach in low visibility due to night and foggy conditions. On final approach, the aircraft descended too low and impacted the ground approximately one mile short of the runway. The aircraft bounced, then struck power cables and the roof of a building before crashing short of the runway threshold.

Aircraft and Crew

The aircraft was destroyed in the accident. All seven crew members on board sustained injuries.

Investigation

The official investigation determined the probable cause: for an unknown reason, the crew continued the approach at an insufficient altitude.