B-52 bomber crashes shortly after takeoff at California’s Edwards Air Force Base, military says
CNN • • general
Key Points:
- A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base near Los Angeles on Monday at 11:20 a.m., prompting an ongoing emergency response.
- The crash caused a large black plume and significant damage to the runway, leading to the closure of the airfield and diversion of inbound aircraft, with visitor passes suspended.
- It is unclear if there were any injuries, and authorities have not yet released further details about the incident.
- The B-52, a long-range heavy bomber first introduced in 1955, remains a key part of the Air Force's arsenal despite its age, with 76 aircraft currently in service.
- The aircraft is no longer in production, and replacements or parts must be sourced from stored airframes, while ongoing upgrade programs aim to extend the B-52's operational life.
