Incident Overview
Date: Tuesday 24 September 1968
Aircraft Type: Boeing KC-135A Stratotanker
Owner/operator: United States Air Force – USAF
Registration Number: 55-3133
Location: Wake Island Airport (AWK) –
ÿ Micronesia
Phase of Flight: Approach
Status: Destroyed
Casualties: Fatalities: 11 / Occupants: 56
Component Affected: EngineEngine
Category: Accident
A KC-135 transport plane experienced a significant incident en route from Thailand to Maine, diverting to Wake Island Airport (AWK) due to engine problems. The plane bounced onto the runway, contacting surface of the water and striking ILS aerials, resulting in flames and a loss of aircraft.A KC-135 transport plane experienced a significant incident en route from Thailand to Maine, diverting to Wake Island Airport (AWK) due to engine problems. The plane bounced onto the runway, contacting surface of the water and striking ILS aerials, resulting in flames and a loss of aircraft.
Description
The KC-135 transport plane was en route from U-Tapao, Thailand and Guam to Loring AFB, ME with en route stops at Honolulu-Hickam AFB, HI (HIK) and California. Over the Pacific Ocean the airplane developed engine problems. They crew decided to divert to Wake Island Airport (AWK). On final approach the airplane contacted the surface of the water and bounced onto the east end of the runway. It struck ILS aerials and burst into flames. Passengers were 509th Bomb Wing personnel returning from duty in Thailand. They also were returning Airman who had been TDY on Guam as part of the 509th.
Primary Cause
Engine failureEngine failureShare on:
