UFO seen in Alaska in 1948

Summary

In January 1948, several officers and soldiers from the 72nd Reconnaissance Squadron in Alaska observed a glowing contrail with intermittent flashes. The object appeared north of Ladd Field, initially as a vertical contrail on the horizon, and became horizontal as it approached. The contrail disappeared into overcast clouds above the airfield. After an investigation, no aircraft was found in the area, raising questions about the nature of the phenomenon.

The investigation included checks with nearby air operations, but no aircraft activity was found in the area. Eventually, it was concluded that the contrail came from a B-29 practicing instrument landings. However, witnesses insisted they did not identify any aircraft, leaving the case in a gray area between the conventional and the unexplained.