A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber crashed shortly after takeoff from Edwards Air Force Base in California on Monday, killing all eight people on board, according to base officials.
The aircraft was carrying out a routine test mission linked to a radar modernisation programme when it went down near the military installation in the Mojave Desert, northeast of Los Angeles. Officials said the operation has now moved from rescue efforts to recovery work.
The bomber took off at around 11:20 am local time before the crash occurred.
“It was tragic and unsurvivable,” Colonel James Hayes told reporters.
Recovery efforts underway
Emergency teams were rushed to the scene after the aircraft went down. Officials said a large plume of black smoke rose from the crash site and was visible from a considerable distance.
Television footage showed a scorched section of the runway and smoke lingering over the area. However, the wreckage of the aircraft was not immediately distinguishable in the visuals.
Chief Master Sergeant Joshua T Skarloken said authorities were notifying the families of those killed.
According to officials, those on board included military personnel, government civilians and government contractors.
Investigation begins
The Air Force said the aircraft was supporting a radar modernisation programme at the time of the accident.
Authorities have begun an investigation into the cause of the crash. While Edwards Air Force Base has reopened, operational activities have been suspended through Tuesday as crews continue debris recovery and assessment work.
The B-52 Stratofortress remains one of the longest-serving aircraft in the US Air Force fleet. The long-range bomber was introduced in 1955. It continues to play a significant role in the country’s strategic military capabilities.