The aircraft went down shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base, with the status of the crew currently unknown
A US Air Force strategic nuclear-capable B-52 Stratofortress bomber has crashed at Edwards Air Force Base in California, the base has said.
The crash occurred on Monday shortly before noon, with the aircraft going down shortly after takeoff. The status of the crew of the aircraft was not immediately known. Modern variants of the iconic bomber usually operate with four-to-five airmen on board.
“Emergency crews immediately responded to the scene and the situation is ongoing. More information will be provided as it becomes available,” the base said in a statement.
The plane caught fire upon impact. Footage circulating online shows a large plume of smoke rising into the sky. The aircraft was completely destroyed in the crash and ensuing blaze.
BREAKING: A U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber crashed shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base, triggering an emergency response.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene as thick black smoke billowed from the wreckage scattered across the desert airfield.
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June 16, 2026 at 01:00AM
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