Valujet Airlines Flight 61 Runway Excursion at Washington Dulles

Casualties unknown • Chantilly, VA, US

A Valujet Airlines McDonnell Douglas DC-9-32 exited the runway during a rejected takeoff at Washington Dulles International Airport, resulting in aircraft damage but no injuries.

What happened

On January 28, 1994, Valujet Airlines flight 61, a McDonnell Douglas DC-9-32, bearing registration N3339L, was performing a takeoff roll on runway 01 right at Washington Dulles International Airport in Chantilly, Virginia. As the aircraft reached a speed of approximately 80 knots, the captain observed that the airplane began to drift toward the right of the runway centerline.

In response to this deviation, the captain decided to perform a rejected takeoff. The crew applied reverse engine thrust; however, during the deceleration process, the aircraft exited the runway via the left side. There were no injuries reported among the 5 crewmembers or the 101 passengers on board, though the airplane sustained damage during the excursion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-01-28 Douglas DC-9-32 accident near Chantilly, VA?

A Valujet Airlines McDonnell Douglas DC-9-32 exited the runway during a rejected takeoff at Washington Dulles International Airport, resulting in aircraft damage but no injuries.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-01-28 involved a Douglas DC-9-32, registration N3339L, operated by Value Jet Airlines, at Chantilly, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flightcrew's failure to maintain directional control during a rejected takeoff. Contributing factors were the wet and icy runway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00615. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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