B-52 Bomber Crash Claims Eight Lives in California

Tue Jun 16 2026 20:01:17 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A US Air Force B‑52 crashes after take‑off from Edwards Air Force Base, killing eight crew members—including two Boeing employees.

A B‑52 bomber crashed shortly after take‑off from Edwards Air Force Base, California, killing all eight aboard, including two Boeing employees. The aircraft, part of a radar modernisation test, burst into flames in a massive plume of black smoke. Base commander Col James Hayes confirmed the incident as an unrecoverable, unsurvivable crash, with investigations expected to take weeks to months. Edwards Air Force Base grounded operations, diverting inbound aircraft and suspending visitor passes until the emergency response is complete.

B-52 Bomber Crash Claims Eight Lives in California

A U.S. Air Force B‑52 Stratofortress crashed moments after leaving Edwards Air Force Base in the Mojave Desert, killing all eight aboard. The crew, a mix of U.S. military, government civilians and contractors, included two Boeing employees.

The incident occurred at 11:20 local time (19:20 GMT), during a routine test mission. A large plume of black smoke can be seen from miles away, and the aircraft burst into flames shortly after leaving the runway.

Col James Hayes, base commander, described the tragedy as "not survivable" and confirmed that all inbound aircraft had been diverted and visitor passes suspended until further notice.

Boeing announced that the two employees on board were directly affected and has been in contact with their families. The company declined to comment further.

State and federal officials expressed condolences. California Governor Gavin Newsom called the crash "a tragic incident." U.S. Representatives Vince Fong, Jay Obernolte and Michigan Congresswoman Lisa McClain posted prayers for the victims and emergency crews on social media.

Map showing the location of Edwards Air Force Base — Edwards Air Force Base in California – 65 miles (100 km) north of Los Angeles.

The B‑52, a long‑range strategic bomber introduced in the 1950s, can carry up to 70,000 lb (32,000 kg) of ordnance and has a maximum altitude of 50,000 ft. It is notable for its role in past U.S. and Israel’s conflicts.

Investigators will determine the cause after a preliminary review of footage. A full cause analysis on the flight data recorder may take over six months.

The B‑52 crew aboard the doomed aircraft included an aircraft commander, pilot, radar navigator, navigator and electronic warfare officer.