4 fatalities

Boeing KC-135A-BN Stratotanker Crashes Off Taichung Following Windshear (56-3629)

Ching Chuan Kang AFB (Taichung), TaiwanTakeoff (climb)

On December 19, 1969, a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker (registration 56-3629) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Ching Chuan Kang AFB (Taichung), Taiwan during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the loss of control was the consequence of windshear. 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

A Boeing KC-135A-BN Stratotanker crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Ching Chuan Kang AFB, killing all four crew members. The loss of control was attributed to windshear.

Accident

A Boeing KC-135A-BN Stratotanker, part of a formation of four aircraft engaged in a refueling mission over the South China Sea, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ching Chuan Kang Air Force Base in Taichung. During initial climb, the aircraft experienced difficulties gaining altitude, stalled, and crashed into the sea a few miles offshore. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact.

Crew

All four crew members were killed in the accident. The crew included Major Gene Thomas Wright as the pilot, along with three other crew members.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the loss of control was the consequence of windshear.