Aircraft: McDonnell F-101B Voodoo
•Tail Number: 58-0268
•Model: F-101B-105-MC
•Unit: USAF 49th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (FIS)
•Incident Date: May 20, 1963
•Location: Crashed into Lake Ontario off Cape Vincent, NY (Location near Syracuse, NY, also mentioned)
Aircraft Type Description #
The McDonnell F-101B Voodoo was a two-seat, long-range interceptor developed during the Cold War for air defense missions. It was equipped with advanced radar systems and missile armaments to intercept and destroy enemy bombers before they could threaten U.S. airspace. The F-101B-105-MC designation signifies a specific production block of the F-101B, which included unique modifications and upgrades to enhance its capabilities for air defense operations.
History #
The F-101B Voodoo with tail number 58-0268 was assigned to the 49th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (FIS), a key component of the U.S. Cold War air defense strategy. The squadron was responsible for patrolling American airspace, particularly the northeastern U.S., which was strategically important due to its proximity to potential Soviet threats. The F-101B played a crucial role in the nation’s efforts to maintain air superiority and deter potential attacks during a period of heightened military tension.
Final Disposition #
On May 20, 1963, the F-101B Voodoo (58-0268) crashed into Lake Ontario off Cape Vincent, NY. While some accounts mention the crash possibly occurring near Syracuse, NY, the majority of reports place the incident in Lake Ont
1. U.S. Air Force Official Website
•The U.S. Air Force often shares public domain images of military aircraft, including the F-101B Voodoo.
2. Wikimedia Commons
•Wikimedia Commons offers public domain and freely licensed photos, including images of military aircraft like the F-101B.
•F-101 Voodoo Images – Wikimedia Commons
3. Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS)
•This U.S. Department of Defense platform provides a range of images and videos, including historical military aircraft photos, which are typically in the public domain.
4. National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
•The museum provides a variety of images, articles, and resources on aircraft, including the F-101B Voodoo, and many images are in the public domain.
•National Museum of the U.S. Air Force – F-101 Voodoo
5. Aviation Safety Network
•While focused on aviation incidents, ASN provides historical context and records of aircraft like the F-101B Voodoo.
6. Flickr – U.S. Air Force Photostream
•Flickr hosts a collection of U.S. Air Force photos, including historical aircraft like the Voodoo.
Resources & Links #
•Forgotten Warbirds Website: Forgotten Warbirds