Air Force: Sensor moisture caused 1st B-2 crash

Condition created bad readings on February flight; both pilots ejected

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updated 6:07 p.m. ET June 5, 2008

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - The first crash of a B-2 stealth bomber was caused by moisture in sensors, the Air Force said.

The military said Thursday that the moisture created bad readings on the February flight. The flight control computer forced the aircraft to pitch up on takeoff.

The aircraft then stalled and crashed at Andersen Air Force Base on Guam. It was on its way to Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. That's where the fleet is based.

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Both pilots ejected. One suffered a spinal compression fracture.

The Air Force grounded the B-2 fleet but resumed flying the planes in late April.