Eight killed after US’ bomber crashes soon after takeoff in California

SACRAMENTO: A US strategic bomber crashed shortly after takeoff, killing eight people aboard. The US Air Force B-52 bomber crashed after taking off from Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California.

The crash occurred at 11:20 am local time on Monday. The plane was on a routine test mission. A large plume of black smoke billowed into the air for miles.

The plane was carrying military personnel, government civilians and government contractors. Edwards Air Force Base said on social media that the airport had been closed and all flights had been diverted. It also said that all non-commercial visitor passes had been suspended until further notice.

The B-52 is a heavy bomber designed for war with the Soviet Union. It first flew in 1954. It has undergone continuous upgrades to keep the plane in service even after the end of the Cold War.

The bomber, which can carry a variety of weapons, including bombs and cruise missiles, has a wingspan of 185 feet and a length of 159 feet. The aircraft typically has a crew of five: an aircraft commander, pilot, radar navigator, navigator, and electronic warfare officer.

With a combat range of up to 8,800 miles, the aircraft can carry a nuclear payload. The United States has deployed the aircraft in conflicts in Vietnam, the Gulf, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Iran.