Eight people killed in US Air Force B-52 bomber crash: What we know
The aircraft, one of the US Air Force's longest-used bombers, goes down during a routine test mission.
www.aljazeera.comair force bomber tumbled to the ground shortly after liftoff during a routine test mission at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The aircraft ignited on impact, with extensive destruction of the airframe. Edwards AFB shut the base temporarily as responders arrived to the scene. Boeing said two of its staff were aboard the aircraft, and investigators said the cause was under study. Possible factors include mechanical failure during the flight. Eight personnel were aboard were were killed in the crash. The incident remains under investigation by authorities as investigators assess flight data to determine the cause.