What happened
A training mission departed from Fort Benning-Lawson AFB in Columbus, Georgia, at 13:34 local time, destined for Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, Alabama. The flight was intended to perform various maneuvers, including approaches, landings, and touch-and-go operations. During the mission, the pilot altered the planned route, directing the aircraft type toward Huntingdon, Tennessee, a location situated over 300 miles northwest of the departure point.
As the aircraft approached the Tennessee town, the pilot descended to perform a low-altitude pass over the area. While executing a second high-speed pass at approximately 230 knots, the plane struck the roof of a residence. The impact caused the aircraft type to disintegrate upon hitting a nearby field. The accident resulted in four fatalities among the crew; there were no reported injuries to persons on the ground.
Findings
Investigations determined that the aircraft broke apart because it was subjected to structural stress exceeding its design limits. While engine inspections showed the power recovery turbines were functioning correctly, the investigation highlighted several pilot errors. The pilot operated the aircraft in a reckless manner and violated established flight boundaries by traveling far beyond the authorized local flying area. Additionally, the pilot failed to adhere to specific training directives and conducted two extremely low-altitude, high-speed passes over a populated area, flying below the required altitude clearance for congested zones.