Training flight crash at Westover Air Force Base

1 fatality • Westover AFB, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A training flight crashed into wooded terrain near Westover AFB during heavy rain, resulting in one fatality and three injuries.

What happened

During a local training mission operating out of Westover Air Force Base, an aircraft encountered significantly reduced visibility caused by intense rainfall. As the crew attempted to execute the final approach, the plane descended below the required decision height and drifted off the intended approach path. The aircraft struck trees while flying over hilly, heavily wooded terrain situated approximately five miles before the runway and one mile to the left of the centerline. The impact occurred at an elevation of 777 feet.

Findings

Investigation into the accident indicates that the aircraft was positioned too low during its final approach phase. The crew failed to maintain the proper alignment with the runway, and the flight descended below the established decision height for unknown reasons. The crash resulted in one fatality and three injuries among the four occupants on board.

Probable cause

The aircraft descended below the decision height and lost alignment with the approach path during heavy rain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1963-06-21 Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker accident near Westover AFB, United States of America?

A training flight crashed into wooded terrain near Westover AFB during heavy rain, resulting in one fatality and three injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1963-06-21 Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1963-06-21 involved a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, registration 57-1498, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Westover AFB, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft descended below the decision height and lost alignment with the approach path during heavy rain.

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