Air Force News, news from Iraq - Air Force Times

Quick Links

http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2008/04/ap_bombercrash_040408/
news/2008/04/ap_bombercrash_040408

B-1B catches fire at al-Udeid, crew safe


Staff reports
Posted : Monday Apr 7, 2008 9:47:52 EDT

A B-1B Lancer bomber caught fire after landing at al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

Maj. John Elof, a spokesman for Air Forces Central, said the crew of four exited the plane safely. It is unclear what led to the emergency.

B-1Bs fly out of al-Udeid, the headquarters for all Air Force air operations in the Middle East, for missions over Iraq and Afghanistan.

In recent years there have been several accidents involving B-1Bs, none resulting in serious injuries or loss of the planes, which are valued at more than $283 million each.

In August a B-1B made an emergency landing at Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan, after an engine caught fire.

Then in March, a Lancer turned back to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, after the crew reported a hydraulic leak. After the crew safely landed the plane and got out, due to concerns about fire, the bomber rolled into a pair of parked fire trucks.

In September 2005, a B-1B caught fire after landing at Andersen because leaking hydraulic fluid came in contact with hot brakes.

And in May 2005, the aircrew of a B-1B landing at Diego Garcia forgot to lower the jet’s landing gear, sending the plane skidding down the runway for several thousand feet.

Contests and Promotions

Service Members Of The Year


promo Your Vote Counts!
The nomination period for the 2009 Military Times Service Members of the Year Award is closed? Return here the week of July 9th for the announcement of winners.

Win a Montague Paratrooper® Tactical Folding Mountain Bike


promo Enter To Win...
Win the Grand Prize: Montague Paratrooper® Tactical Folding Mountain Bike. Originally crafted for the U.S. Special Forces. FIRST PRIZE: Leatherman Micra Multi-Tool. 50 Winners!

Marketplace

Military Times Gear Shop


Converse  8 Sage Green Composite Safety Toe Boot Converse 8 Sage Green Composite Safety Toe Boot
Authentic Converse® athletic fit, comfort and performance with tactical design and non-metallic safety toe.

Price: $122.99

Military Discounts


Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.

Shoplocal

  Shop Local
Local Online Deals
Find the best deals at your local stores.