Six US Airmen Killed in Iraq Refueling Plane Crash

The crew included a newly promoted Alabama pilot and several Ohio Air National Guard members

Mar. 15, 2026 at 12:35am

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A refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq this week, killing six U.S. service members. Among the victims were Alex Klinner, a 33-year-old pilot from Alabama who had just been promoted to major and deployed less than a week earlier, leaving behind his wife and three young children. Also aboard was Sgt. Tyler Simmons of Columbus, Ohio, whose family remembered him for his warm smile and strong presence.

Why it matters

The crash of the KC-135 Stratotanker, a mainstay of the U.S. military's aerial refueling fleet, highlights the ongoing dangers faced by American troops deployed overseas, even in areas considered 'friendly' territory. The incident raises questions about the safety and maintenance of aging military aircraft, as well as the toll on service members and their families.

The details

The refueling aircraft was supporting operations against Iran when an unspecified incident involving another plane occurred, causing the KC-135 to crash. The other plane landed safely, but the six crew members aboard the Stratotanker were killed. The Pentagon has not yet released the identities of the victims, but families began coming forward on Saturday to confirm their loved ones' deaths.

  • The crash occurred on Thursday, March 13, 2026.
  • Alex Klinner had just been promoted to major in January 2026, less than a week before the fatal deployment.

The players

Alex Klinner

A 33-year-old pilot from Birmingham, Alabama, who had just been promoted to major in the U.S. Air Force and deployed to Iraq less than a week before the crash. He leaves behind his wife and three young children.

Sgt. Tyler Simmons

A member of the Ohio Air National Guard's 121st Air Refueling Wing, whose family remembered him for his warm smile and strong presence.

U.S. Central Command

The military command that oversees operations in the Middle East, including the combat mission the refueling aircraft was supporting when the crash occurred.

121st Air Refueling Wing

The Ohio Air National Guard unit that three of the deceased airmen were assigned to.

KC-135 Stratotanker

The refueling aircraft that crashed, a mainstay of the U.S. military's aerial refueling fleet that has been in service for over 60 years.

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What they’re saying

“It's kind of heartbreaking to say: He was just a really good dad and really loved his family a lot — like a lot.”

— James Harrill, Brother-in-law of Alex Klinner

“Tyler's smile could light up any room, his strong presence would fill it. His parents, grandparents, family and friends are grief stricken for the loss of life.”

— Tyler Simmons' family

What’s next

The U.S. military is investigating the cause of the crash, which officials have said was not due to hostile or friendly fire.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the ongoing risks and sacrifices made by U.S. service members deployed overseas, even in areas considered relatively safe. It also raises questions about the maintenance and safety of the aging KC-135 refueling fleet, which remains a critical asset for sustaining military operations worldwide.