No fatalities

1950-03-01: Curtiss C-46 Commando (42-107320) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Harrisburg, United States of America

Harrisburg, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 1, 1950, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration 42-107320) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Harrisburg, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the belly landing and subsequent fire is currently undetermined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781258361Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a belly landing at Harrisburg-Olmsted Air Force Base, resulting in a post-crash fire and significant airframe damage.

What happened

During an arrival at Harrisburg-Olmsted Air Force Base, an unidentified aircraft performed a belly landing on the runway. Following the initial impact with the ground, the plane slid for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop. Upon reaching rest, the aircraft caught fire.

Despite the intensity of the flames, all four crew members were able to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The incident resulted in the aircraft being declared a total loss due to damage that was beyond repair.

Findings

The specific reasons for the landing gear failure or the decision to perform a belly landing remain unknown at this time.

Probable cause

The cause of the belly landing and subsequent fire is currently undetermined.