Landing gear failure leads to aircraft fire

No fatalities • Kadena AFB, Japan • Landing (descent or approach)

A primary landing gear malfunction during touchdown caused an aircraft to lose control and catch fire, resulting in several injuries among the crew.

What happened

During the landing phase of the flight, a significant mechanical failure occurred when one of the main landing gear components failed upon touchdown. This structural failure caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable immediately following contact with the runway. As the vessel veered out of its intended path, it eventually came to a halt in a state of uncontrolled movement, at which point a fire broke out.

The incident resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft due to the intensity of the flames. Despite the severity of the post-crash fire, all 14 crew members on board were successfully rescued from the wreckage. While there were no fatalities reported among the personnel, several individuals sustained injuries during the emergency evacuation and subsequent fire.

Findings

Investigations into the accident concluded that the primary factor leading to the loss of control was an undercarriage failure occurring at the moment of landing.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by a failure of the aircraft's landing gear during the touchdown process.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1951-04-06 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident near Kadena AFB, Japan?

A primary landing gear malfunction during touchdown caused an aircraft to lose control and catch fire, resulting in several injuries among the crew.

Were there any fatalities in the 1951-04-06 Boeing B-29 Superfortress accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1951-04-06 involved a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, registration 42-65369, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Kadena AFB, Japan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by a failure of the aircraft's landing gear during the touchdown process.

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