Fatal aircraft crash in Kum Ho-Dong following engine failure

59 fatalities • Seoul-Yeouido AFB, South Korea • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed in Seoul's Kum Ho-Dong district after experiencing an engine failure during its initial climb, resulting in significant loss of life on board and on the ground.

What happened

During a flight departing from Yeouido AFB in Seoul, an aircraft was climbing toward Daegu when the captain reported a malfunction involving the left engine to air traffic control. Due to the mechanical failure and prevailing poor weather conditions, which included drizzle and fog, the pilot decided to attempt an emergency return to the airfield.

Shortly after this decision, the aircraft lost stability and plummeted into the Kum Ho-Dong district. The impact triggered a massive explosion that caused the plane to disintegrate upon hitting the ground. The crash resulted in the destruction of multiple residential buildings and houses in the area. The accident claimed the lives of all 15 occupants of the aircraft, along with 44 individuals on the ground. Additionally, the disaster left 120 people injured, with 23 of those injuries classified as serious.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary factor was a fire within the left engine during the early stages of the climb.

Probable cause

An unidentified fire occurred in the left engine during the initial climb phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1967-04-08 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Seoul-Yeouido AFB, South Korea?

An aircraft crashed in Seoul's Kum Ho-Dong district after experiencing an engine failure during its initial climb, resulting in significant loss of life on board and on the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 1967-04-08 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 59 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1967-04-08 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, operated by Republic of Korea Air Force, at Seoul-Yeouido AFB, South Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An unidentified fire occurred in the left engine during the initial climb phase.

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