Edwards Air Force Base: B-52 Stratofortress bomber plane crashes in California soon after take-off

Eight people are presumed dead after a fiery explosion of a bomber plane during a routine test mission at a US air base.

The crash happened at Edwards Air Force Base in southern California, which remains closed.

In a statement, a spokesperson from the base said the B-52 Stratofortress crashed “shortly after take-off” at 11.20am local time.

“Initial indications are that the crash was not survivable,” they said.

“Emergency response personnel are on scene, and officials are working to account for all personnel.”

An investigation into the crash is now underway to determine what happened.

In the social media post, the base added that “thoughts and prayers (were) with the families and unit members at this time”.

The bomber plane typically would carry a crew of five: an aircraft commander, pilot, radar navigator, navigator, and electronic warfare officer.

Earlier, a spokesperson said the base was closed to the public.

“The airfield has been closed, and all inbound aircraft are being diverted,” it read.

“All non-commercial visitor passes have been suspended until further notice to allow the installation to focus entirely on emergency response operations.”

In footage shared on social media, black plumes of smoke can be seen billowing from the base, which is located in the Mojave desert.

A large portion of the US Air Force’s aircraft test and development efforts is based at the Edwards Air Force Base. It is run by the 412th Test Wing, who conduct developmental testing of all US Air Force aircraft, weapons systems, software and components before purchase by the service, as well as throughout their lifespan.

The B-52 is one of the US Air Force’s oldest aircraft, which has been in service since 1955.

It can carry more than 30,000 kilograms of bombs and other munitions.

More to come...