CALIFORNIA (TNND) — Eight people are presumed dead following the crash of a U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base at 11:20 a.m. Monday.
According to military officials, there are no expected survivors from the routine test mission. Currently, rescue operations have transitioned to recovery efforts.
The B-52, carrying eight personnel, went down on the Edwards airfield. Eyewitness video captured black smoke rising from the crash site. Inbound aircraft were diverted as emergency crews responded to the ongoing situation, according to a statement from the base.
The B-52 Stratofortress, built by Boeing and first introduced in the 1950s, remains a key component of U.S. military air power, capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear payloads.
The U.S. Air Force and NASA utilize Edwards Air Force Base for test flights of new and developmental aircraft.
Edwards AFB expressed condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and unit members at this time.”
No further details regarding the incident or investigation status have been released.