A B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff from Edwards Air Force Base in California, resulting in the loss of all eight lives on board. The crew included military personnel, government civilians, and contractors supporting the flight test mission.

Investigation Underway

As investigators begin to piece together the events surrounding the crash, they are likely to focus on factors that directly affect an aircraft’s ability to safely depart the runway and climb after takeoff. The B-52’s age, maintenance records, and recently installed components will also be part of the discussion.

Aviation attorney and Marine helicopter pilot veteran Justin Green noted that the fact that the aircraft went down moments after takeoff is likely to shape the early stages of the investigation. Green emphasized that investigators are still in the earliest stages of the probe and should not make any assumptions.

The Air Force is currently pursuing one of the most ambitious modernization efforts in the B-52’s history, which includes equipping the bombers with new Rolls-Royce F130 engines, upgraded avionics, and a modern active electronically scanned array radar.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.