A rare photograph shows a US B‑17 bomber after being hit by intense German anti‑aircraft fire over Budapest on July 14, 1944. The 88 mm flak likely destroyed much of the aircraft's nose and caused severe damage to the fuselage. Despite the damage, the bomber continued to fly for about ten minutes, allowing the remaining crew to bail out and survive.
The B‑17 "Flying Fortress" was known for its durability and ability to return to base even after heavy damage. Numerous wartime images document similar aircraft losing parts of their wings, tail, or fuselage yet remaining airborne.