On February 21, 1951, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration PP-ITF) operated by Companhia Itaú de Transportes Aéreos was involved in an aviation accident near Rio de Janeiro-Galeão, Brazil during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
On final approach to Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont Airport, severe turbulence caused the aircraft to hit the ground short of the runway. After sustaining damage, the crew diverted to Galeão Airport, where the aircraft veered off the runway and was destroyed by fire.
Incident Overview
The crew of an aircraft on final approach to Rio de Janeiro-Santos Dumont Airport encountered severe turbulence. During the last segment of the approach, the airplane struck the ground short of the runway. The impact sheared off the right main landing gear and damaged the right engine.
Diversion to Galeão
After the hard landing, the pilot in command increased power on both engines and diverted to Rio de Janeiro-Galeão Airport. The aircraft landed safely at Galeão, but during the landing roll, it went out of control and came to rest in flames.
Rescue and Damage
All four crew members were rescued from the aircraft. The aircraft was destroyed by a post-crash fire.