What happened
During a scheduled transfer mission from Carswell AFB to Biggs AAF in El Paso, a B-52 struck the terrain of the Franklin Mountains. The accident occurred approximately six miles west of Biggs AAF while the aircraft was approaching from the western direction at an altitude of 5,200 feet.
At the time of the impact, the flight crew was navigating through unfavorable weather conditions. The collision with the mountain slope resulted in a total of nine fatalities, as there were no survivors among the crew and passengers on board.
Findings
Official investigations into the crash identified two primary contributing factors. It is believed that the pilot-in-command experienced spatial disorientation during the approach. Additionally, investigators noted the possibility that the crew may have been confused by instructions provided by Ground Controlled Approach (GCA) controllers.