Eight people were killed after a US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber crashed during takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California on Monday, authorities said.
Air Force officials disclosed that the aircraft was conducting a routine test mission in support of a radar modernisation programme when it went down shortly after departing the runway and erupted in flames upon impact.
Speaking at a press briefing, Colonel James Hayes described the accident as “unsurvivable” and confirmed that the aircraft was carrying a mixed crew comprising military personnel, government civilians and contractors.
He added that the B-52 Stratofortress belonged to the 412th Test Wing and had been engaged in experimental work at Edwards Air Force Base when the crash occurred.
Images and video footage from the scene showed a large scorched area of desert terrain, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky and visible from several miles away.
Officials said some of those killed were employees of Boeing, although the identities of all eight victims are being withheld pending notification of their next of kin.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the crash. Investigators have begun examining the wreckage, while flight operations at Edwards Air Force Base have been temporarily suspended due to damage sustained by the runway.
The B-52 Stratofortress, a long-range strategic bomber capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional weapons, has remained a cornerstone of the US Air Force’s bomber fleet and continues to serve decades after entering active service.
