On July 30, 1942, a Boeing 247 (registration NC13335) operated by Northwest Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Minneapolis-Saint Paul, United States of America during takeoff. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft stalled during the climb phase shortly after takeoff, leading to a fatal impact with the ground. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A twin-engine aircraft stalled shortly after departing Minneapolis-World Chamberlain Airport, crashing and killing all ten occupants who were Northwest Airlines employees.
What happened
The incident occurred immediately following departure from Minneapolis-World Chamberlain Airport. While the aircraft was in a climb phase at an altitude of approximately 200 feet, it experienced a stall. This loss of lift caused the plane to descend rapidly and impact the ground. Upon collision, the airframe caught fire and was completely destroyed. All 10 occupants on board lost their lives. The individuals killed were identified as employees of Northwest Airlines.
Findings
The aircraft involved in this accident had previously served in military service under the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF). Its official registration number was 42-68369. No specific mechanical failures or pilot errors are detailed in the available records, but the immediate cause of the crash was the stall during the initial climb.
Probable cause
The aircraft stalled during the climb phase shortly after takeoff, leading to a fatal impact with the ground.
What happened in the 30 Jul 1942 Boeing 247 accident near Minneapolis-Saint Paul, United States of America?
A twin-engine aircraft stalled shortly after departing Minneapolis-World Chamberlain Airport, crashing and killing all ten occupants who were Northwest Airlines employees.
Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jul 1942 Boeing 247 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 10 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Jul 1942 involved a Boeing 247, registration NC13335, operated by Northwest Airlines, at Minneapolis-Saint Paul, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft stalled during the climb phase shortly after takeoff, leading to a fatal impact with the ground.
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