1959-03-31: Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Killeen, United States of America

4 fatalities • Killeen, United States of America • Flight

Probable cause

Following severe turbulences in-flight, the pylon of two engines failed, causing the engine to detach. One of them struck the empennage that was partially sheared off. The aircraft went out of control and crashed.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The crew departed Bergstrom AFB (Austin) on a B-52 refuelling mission. En route, while cruising in a low pressure area with turbulences, the airplane went out of control, dove into the ground and crashed in a huge explosion. All four crew members were killed. Brand new, the airplane has been delivered six weeks prior to the accident. Crew: Lt Rodney Anderlitch, Maj Jesse Lee Myrick, Lt Philip Camillo de Bonis, Sgt Herman Allison Clark.

Probable cause (official findings): Following severe turbulences in-flight, the pylon of two engines failed, causing the engine to detach. One of them struck the empennage that was partially sheared off. The aircraft went out of control and crashed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1959-03-31 Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker accident near Killeen, United States of America?

The crew departed Bergstrom AFB (Austin) on a B-52 refuelling mission. En route, while cruising in a low pressure area with turbulences, the airplane went out of control, dove into the ground and crashed in a huge explosion. All four crew members were killed. Brand new, the airplane has been delivered six weeks prior…

Were there any fatalities in the 1959-03-31 Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1959-03-31 involved a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, registration 58-0002, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Killeen, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Following severe turbulences in-flight, the pylon of two engines failed, causing the engine to detach. One of them struck the empennage that was partially sheared off. The aircraft went out of control and crashed.

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