13 fatalities

C-130 Crash at Minot AFB Kills 13, Including General (58-0026)

Minot AFB, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On January 17, 1968, a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker (registration 58-0026) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Minot AFB, United States of America during takeoff. 13 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is believe the pilot-in-command over-rotated for unknown reason. 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 four-engine aircraft crashed on takeoff from Minot Air Force Base during a snowstorm, killing all 13 aboard, including Maj Gen Charles M. Eisenhart. Investigators cited pilot over-rotation.

Accident Details

On an unspecified date, a four-engine aircraft departed from Minot Air Force Base (AFB) bound for Glasgow. The takeoff was attempted during a snowstorm. Immediately after lifting off, the aircraft went out of control and crashed in flames within the runway edge. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and ensuing fire. All 13 occupants were killed, among them Major General Charles M. Eisenhart, who was completing a troop's check.

Investigation

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. According to the findings, it is believed that the pilot-in-command over-rotated the aircraft for an unknown reason. No other causal factors were specified in the report.

Aftermath

The crash resulted in the total loss of the aircraft and the deaths of all on board. The incident highlighted the challenges of operating in adverse weather conditions, though no further analysis was provided by the investigation.