[ops33]

The aircraft had just departed from Minot AFB, another B-52 base. Crew was there for training, many military training routes in the area. Because the B-52 is a long range aircraft most of its training missions are long flights. These type of flights happen almost everyday. The article did not state exactly what the emergency was only that because of bad weather the pilot diverted to Minot International instead of trying to return to Minot AFB.

[mcshot]

This article brings back old memories of Minot AFB in the early 70s. The area is relatively flat and the wind driven snow is very difficult to see and drive in. In fact, it’s called snirt (half snow and half dirt) and the wind chills are very dangerous. So much so that wearing of winter military parkas was authorized during civilian hours. I lived off base across from Minot International and remember it well.