As the Collings Foundation’s crippled B-17, N93012, was approaching Runway 6 at Bradley Windsor Locks, Connecticut, a few weeks ago, the crew was already desperately pressed for altitude to try and align the World War II bomber with the runway for landing. Shortly after takeoff from Runway 6 just minutes before, the airplane never climbed above 500 feet agl before it began a return to the field with a mechanical problem reported in the number four engine. By the time the airplane was on downwind, its altitude had dropped to 300 feet. During the turn from base to final, the Boeing continued losing altitude, eventually striking the airport approach lights 1,000 feet short of the hard surface before it veered right and struck a number of vehicles, as well as a deicing fluid tank sitting 1,100 feet right of the runway threshold.
NTSB Offers Preliminary Information on B-17 Accident at Bradley
Key Takeaways:
- A Collings Foundation B-17 crashed at Bradley Windsor Locks Airport shortly after takeoff due to a reported mechanical problem with an engine, resulting in seven fatalities on board.
- The aircraft struggled significantly with altitude, remaining below 500 feet and dropping to 300 feet, ultimately striking approach lights and ground vehicles before reaching the runway.
- Preliminary NTSB findings noted the landing gear was down and flaps were up, and maintenance records indicated diligent care for the aircraft, including recent inspections and engine overhauls.
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