A NASA WB-57F high-altitude research aircraft executed a controlled belly landing at Ellington Field in Houston, Texas, on January 27, 2026, after experiencing a front landing gear failure, according to authorities. The aircraft touched down without deploying its nose gear, producing visible sparks and small flames upon contact with the runway, but no injuries were reported.

The two-person crew safely evacuated the aircraft following the landing. Emergency responders were on standby, and the situation was contained without further incident. NASA confirmed that the aircraft involved is one of only two WB-57F Canberras still in active service.

The WB-57F is a Cold War-era jet originally developed in the 1950s and later modified by NASA for high-altitude atmospheric, earth science, and astronomy missions. Capable of flying above 60,000 feet, the aircraft is frequently used for climate research, satellite calibration, and mission support.

The incident highlights the unique operational challenges associated with maintaining and flying highly specialized legacy aircraft. NASA stated that the event will be reviewed as part of standard safety and maintenance procedures, and the aircraft has been grounded pending inspection.