Four killed in US KC-135 refueling plane crash in Iraq

A US KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq, resulting in the deaths of four of its six crew members, US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on X.

The crash occurred at approximately 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and search and rescue operations are ongoing, Caliber.Az reports.

Four Confirmed Deceased in Loss of U.S. KC-135 Over Iraq

TAMPA, Fla. – At approximately 2 pm ET on March 12, a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft went down in western Iraq. Four of six crew members on board the aircraft have been confirmed deceased as rescue efforts continue.

The…

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 13, 2026

“At approximately 2 pm ET on March 12, a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft went down in western Iraq. Four of six crew members on board the aircraft have been confirmed deceased as rescue efforts continue.

The circumstances of the incident are under investigation. However, the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire.

The identities of the service members are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified,” a statement by the US Central Command reads.

By Vafa Guliyeva