Here is information about that incident:
- Circumstances: A B-1B Lancer crashed during a training mission. The crash occurred approximately 100 feet short of the runway during a low-visibility landing approach in dense fog and rapidly shifting winds.
- Crew: All four crew members ejected safely.
- Injuries: Two crew members sustained injuries during the ejection. One had multiple fractures and a severe spinal injury, and another’s injuries may have been due to their weight, according to a family member.
- Damage: The bomber skidded across the runway, caught fire, and was declared a total loss. The total estimated loss from the crash, including damage to the aircraft and airfield, was over $456 million.
- Investigation: An investigation board identified the following contributing factors:
- Consequences: The crash led to a leadership shake-up at Ellsworth Air Force Base, including the firing of the operations group commander. The runway was closed for nearly a month, impacting B-1B operations, according to Air Force Times.
Other notable B-1B crashes
- August 19, 2013: A B-1B crashed near Broadus, Montana, during a training mission. All four crew members ejected safely.
- September 19, 1997: A B-1B crashed near Alzada, Montana, killing all four crew members. The crash was attributed to pilot error.
These are only a few examples. The B-1B Lancer, like any military aircraft, has a history of accidents and incidents throughout its service life.
