Fatal crash of aircraft near airfield following structural failure

39 fatalities • Myrtle Beach, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed two miles from the airfield shortly after takeoff, resulting in the deaths of all 39 people on board.

What happened

During the initial climb phase, at an altitude estimated between 1,000 and 2,000 feet, the aircraft experienced significant instability. The flight path became erratic, leading to a loss of altitude and a subsequent impact in a field located approximately two miles from the airfield. The collision resulted in a massive explosion and the total destruction of the airframe. There were 39 fatalities among the occupants, with no survivors recorded.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the aircraft suffered a catastrophic structural failure during flight. Eyewitness accounts indicated that components were seen falling from the plane prior to the crash. The sequence of events began when a portion of the right aileron failed and detached from the wing, which induced intense vibrations throughout the airframe. As the crew attempted to stabilize the aircraft's attitude, the plane began oscillating between left and right banks. Ultimately, the aerodynamic loads exceeded the structural certification limits, causing both wings to separate from the fuselage. This loss of structural integrity rendered the aircraft uncontrollable.

Probable cause

The detachment of a right aileron component led to extreme vibrations and aerodynamic forces that caused the wings to separate from the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1950-07-23 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Myrtle Beach, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed two miles from the airfield shortly after takeoff, resulting in the deaths of all 39 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1950-07-23 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 39 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1950-07-23 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration 44-77577, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Myrtle Beach, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The detachment of a right aileron component led to extreme vibrations and aerodynamic forces that caused the wings to separate from the aircraft.

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