2 fatalities

Aircraft Crash Near Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB (44-35885)

Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB, GermanyTakeoff (climb)

On August 7, 1952, a Douglas A-26 Invader (registration 44-35885) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB, Germany during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine explosion during initial climb. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed in a field 6 km southeast of Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB after an engine exploded during initial climb. Two crew members bailed out and were rescued, while two other occupants were killed.

Incident Overview shortly after takeoff from Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB, an aircraft experienced an engine explosion while climbing. The aircraft subsequently crashed in a field located 6 km southeast of the airbase. Two crew members were able to bail out and were later rescued, while both other occupants were killed in the crash. The official investigation identified the probable cause as an engine explosion during initial climb. No specific aircraft type, registration, date, operator, or location beyond the airbase and crash site is provided in the source material. The incident resulted in two fatalities and two survivors who were rescued after bailing out.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Aug 1952 Douglas A-26 Invader accident near Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB, Germany?

An aircraft crashed in a field 6 km southeast of Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB after an engine exploded during initial climb. Two crew members bailed out and were rescued, while two other occupants were killed.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 Aug 1952 Douglas A-26 Invader accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Aug 1952 involved a Douglas A-26 Invader, registration 44-35885, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB, Germany.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine explosion during initial climb