US Military Refuelling Aircraft Declares In-Flight Emergency Over Persian Gulf, Signal Lost Near Qatar
A United States Air Force Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker declared an in-flight emergency while operating over the Persian Gulf amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, according to flight tracking data from Flightradar24.
The aircraft, which functions as an airborne refuelling platform for US military planes, issued a “7700” distress signal — the universal aviation code for a general in-flight emergency. It had taken off from Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates before its signal was lost over Qatar.
The aircraft had reportedly been operating over the region in support of ongoing military operations. Flightradar24 data showed the plane flying in a circular pattern before beginning its descent for landing. The exact cause of the emergency remains unclear, and no official confirmation has linked the incident to any hostile action.
🔴 یک فروند هواپیمای سوخترسان KC-135R نیروی هوایی ایالات متحده آمریکا که از پایگاه هوایی الظفره امارات برخاسته بود، در حین پرواز بر فراز خلیج فارس، کد اضطراری ۷۷۰۰ را مخابره کرد.
🔹ارسال این کد به معنای وجود یک وضعیت اضطراری و فوری است که نیاز به فرود دارد. pic.twitter.com/o3HBB660hs— خبرگزاری فارس (@FarsNews_Agency) May 5, 2026
Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency reported on the incident, citing Flightradar24 data. No statement from Iran indicated its involvement. The US military has also not issued any statement on the status of the aircraft.
Previous KC-135 Loss in Iraq
In March, the US military lost a KC-135 in an attack in western Iraq. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq an umbrella group of Iran-backed armed factions claimed responsibility, stating it shot down the aircraft “in defence of our country’s sovereignty and airspace,” according to Reuters.
What Is the KC-135 Stratotanker?
The KC-135 Stratotanker is a four-engine turbofan military aircraft designed primarily for aerial refuelling. In service with the US Air Force for more than 60 years, it allows fighter jets, bombers, and other military aircraft to extend their range and remain airborne for longer periods. It also supports aircraft from the US Navy, Marine Corps, and allied nations.
The aircraft is based on Boeing’s 367-80 design, which also formed the basis for the commercial Boeing 707. Hundreds of KC-135s remain in active service across the US Air Force, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve.
Beyond refuelling, the KC-135 can carry passengers and cargo, and is also configured for aeromedical evacuation missions. During such operations, a medical team comprising flight nurses and technicians is added to the crew. Depending on its configuration, the aircraft can transport approximately 37,600 kg of cargo or several dozen passengers.