6 fatalities

Cargo Aircraft Crashes Short of Runway at Shemya Airport (61-2664)

Shemya, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 15, 1981, a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker (registration 61-2664) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Shemya, United States of America during landing or approach. 6 people were killed. 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

An aircraft crashed short of the runway at Shemya Airport during a night approach in poor weather with turbulence, fog, and snow. Six occupants were killed, 18 rescued.

Overview

On an approach to Shemya Airport, an aircraft crashed short of the runway threshold during nighttime and adverse weather conditions. The flight was conducting an instrument approach when the accident occurred.

Accident Details

The approach was initiated at night amidst poor weather, including turbulence, fog, and snow. On final approach, the crew failed to recognize that the aircraft was too low. The airplane subsequently struck the ground and crashed a few hundred yards short of the runway threshold.

Casualties

Six occupants were killed in the accident. The deceased were identified as Maj William R. Bennett, Cpt Larry A. Mayfield, 1st Lt Loren O. Ginter, M/Sgt Stephen L. Kish, S/Sgt Steven C. Balcer, and S/Sgt Harry L. Parsons III. Eighteen other occupants were rescued.