posted 01-27-2026 12:38 PM               

Around 11:30 a.m. today [Jan. 27], a NASA aircraft had an issue upon landing on Runway 17R-35L at Ellington Airport (EFD).

First responders with a military subcontractor are responding to the incident. The runway is closed until the aircraft can be removed.

Today, a mechanical issue with one of NASA’s WB-57s resulted in a gear-up landing at Ellington Field. Response to the incident is ongoing, and all crew are safe at this time.

As with any incident, a thorough investigation will be conducted by NASA into the cause. NASA will transparently update the public as we gather more information.

posted 01-28-2026 02:07 PM               

Following standard medical evaluations at Ellington Field, both crew members aboard the WB-57 were cleared and are in good health. Both individuals are NASA employees.

NASA operates three WB-57 aircraft; the one involved in yesterday's incident carries tail number NASA927. The aircraft departed Ellington Field for a routine training flight at approximately 10:19 a.m. CST and landed at approximately 11:19 a.m.

NASA will lead a thorough investigation. Additional details will be provided once the investigation is complete.

NASA anticipates no impact to Artemis II operations given the multiple aerial assets available to support, including the Gulfstream V, Gulfstream III, and a U.S. Navy C-20. These aircraft will provide imagery during key mission phases, including launch, entry, and splashdown.