A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress long-range heavy bomber crashed shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base on Monday morning, triggering an immediate emergency response, military officials confirmed.
EDWARDS, Calif. — The incident occurred at approximately 11:20 a.m. local time on the airfield of the vast desert installation, located about 100 miles north of Los Angeles.
“Emergency crews immediately responded to the scene and the situation is ongoing,” base officials said in a statement published on social media. “More information will be provided as it becomes available.”
Initial reports and images from the high desert area showed a massive column of thick black smoke rising from the airfield, visible for miles across Los Angeles County. Multiple fires were reported at ground level near the runway.
Crew Status and Cause Unknown
A B-52 bomber typically operates with a crew of five personnel. The cause of the crash remains unknown and will be subject to a rigorous military safety investigation. The Air Force has not yet disclosed the specific mission or flight plan of the aircraft prior to the crash.
A Critical Testing Hub
Edwards Air Force Base is the Air Force’s premier site for testing and evaluating advanced aviation technologies, new weapons systems, and aircraft modifications.
The B-52 Stratofortress, a subsonic, nuclear-capable strategic bomber, has been a backbone of American air power since entering service in the 1950s. The fleet is currently undergoing a series of major modernization efforts (including new engines and upgraded radar systems) designed to keep the historic bombers flying into the 2050s.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as official information is released by the U.S. Air Force.
UPDATE
“The U.S Air Force B-52 Stratofortress was carrying eight people on a routine test mission. Initial indications are that the crash was not survivable. Emergency response personnel are on scene, and officials are working to account for all personnel,” says the 412th Test Wing Public Affairs in a statement.
