Incident Overview
The aircraft was returning to Madrid-Torrejón Air Force Base after completing a refueling mission over the Mediterranean Sea. While descending to the airbase, the crew reported an altitude of 17,000 feet. Shortly after, the aircraft disappeared from radar screens.
Search and Recovery
Main wreckage and debris were located in the vicinity of Centenera, approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Torrejón Airbase. The aircraft was totally destroyed in the crash. All six crew members aboard were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the exact cause of the accident could not be established with certainty. However, evidence indicated that an in-flight explosion occurred in the No. 1 fuel tank. The explosion may have been caused by chafing of boost pump wires within their conduits.