Aircraft crash during approach to Wenatchee-Pangborn Airport

No fatalities • Wenatchee, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed during its final approach to Wenatchee-Pangborn Airport following a firefighting mission, resulting in an onboard fire.

What happened

While returning to Wenatchee-Pangborn Airport after completing a mission involving aerial firefighting near the Wenatchee region, the aircraft experienced a critical failure during its approach. As the plane was on short final for landing, it caught fire and crashed before reaching the runway threshold.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. Despite the severity of the crash and the subsequent flames, the two pilots involved sustained only slight injuries.

Findings

Official investigations into the accident determined that an in-flight fire occurred for reasons that remain undetermined.

Probable cause

An unidentified fire broke out while the aircraft was in flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-07-27 Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer accident near Wenatchee, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed during its final approach to Wenatchee-Pangborn Airport following a firefighting mission, resulting in an onboard fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-07-27 Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-07-27 involved a Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer, registration N6816D, operated by Hawkins & Powers Aviation, at Wenatchee, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An unidentified fire broke out while the aircraft was in flight.

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