Boeing 247 accident at Charleston, United States of America, 16 Apr 1941 (NC13359)
On April 16, 1941, a Boeing 247 (registration NC13359) operated by Pennsylvania Central Air Lines was involved in an aviation accident near Charleston, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of power in the right engine due to causes unknown. Contributing factors were: - Failure of PCA to establish adequate procedures to require its pilots to be familiar with the terrain surrounding airports, and failure of Captain Wright to familiarize… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
Loss of power in the right engine due to causes unknown. Contributing factors were: - Failure of PCA to establish adequate procedures to require its pilots to be familiar with the terrain surrounding airports, and failure of Captain Wright to familiarize himself adequately with the terrain surrounding the Charleston Municipal Airport. - Failure of PCA to inform its pilots of the amount of power which could reasonably be taken from Pratt and Whitney Wasp S1H1-G engines under emergency conditions, and the consequent hesitancy of Captain Wright to exercise his emergency authority and use additional power soon enough to clear the ridge.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
Shortly after takeoff from Charleston Airport, while climbing, the right engine failed. The pilot lost control of the airplane that stalled and crashed in a wooded area located near the airport. All nine occupants were injured and the aircraft was destroyed by impact forces. There was no fire. Crew: Russell J. Wright, captain, William H. Riley, first officer, Irene Coates, flight stewardess.
Probable cause (official findings): Loss of power in the right engine due to causes unknown. Contributing factors were: - Failure of PCA to establish adequate procedures to require its pilots to be familiar with the terrain surrounding airports, and failure of Captain Wright to familiarize himself adequately with the terrain surrounding the Charleston Municipal Airport. - Failure of PCA to inform its pilots of the amount of power which could reasonably be taken from Pratt and Whitney Wasp S1H1-G engines under emergency conditions, and the consequent hesitancy of Captain Wright to exercise his emergency authority and use additional power soon enough to clear the ridge.