4 fatalities

Crew Fatalities During Initial Climb After Engine Power Loss (43-47126)

Lüliang, ChinaTakeoff (climb)

On July 6, 1945, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration 43-47126) operated by United States Army Air Forces - USAAF (1941-1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Lüliang, China during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by the loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. 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 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into a hillside shortly after takeoff due to the loss of engine power, resulting in the deaths of all four crew members on board.

What happened

The incident occurred during the initial climb phase, shortly after the aircraft departed the airport. During this critical stage of flight, one or both engines experienced a total loss of power. Unable to maintain altitude or control, the aircraft descended and impacted the slope of a hill located a few kilometers from the departure point. The impact was fatal for all four crew members on board.

Findings

The official investigation determined that the primary factor leading to the accident was the loss of engine power. This mechanical failure during the initial climb phase prevented the aircraft from continuing its ascent, resulting in the controlled or uncontrolled descent into terrain.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the loss of engine power shortly after takeoff.