Overview
Monarch Flight 1090 was a nonstop instrument flight from Chicago to Newark, New Jersey, cleared by Air Route Traffic Control to proceed at 9,000 feet. The crew consisted of Captain Marvin C. Staddon, Copilot Arthur J. Howarth, and Stewardess Thelma Dennis. The aircraft, a C-46, had a total takeoff weight of approximately 46,100 pounds, exceeding the authorized gross weight by about 1,100 pounds. The crew reported that the disposable load was distributed within certificated center-of-gravity limits.
Sequence of Events
Preflight checks were completed according to company procedures with satisfactory results. The takeoff commenced at 0227 on Runway 31. The captain advanced throttles to approximately 45 inches manifold pressure and 2700 RPM; the copilot then increased manifold pressure to 47 inches, tightened friction locks, and guarded the throttles. The aircraft became airborne about halfway down the 5,730-foot runway. According to the copilot, engine performance was normal with constant manifold pressure and RPM.
At the captain’s command to raise the landing gear, the copilot moved the handle to retract and noted the aircraft turning slightly left with an airspeed of approximately 85 mph. With the left wing down and only a few feet of altitude, the copilot applied emergency take-off power (55 inches manifold pressure). However, the C-46 continued turning, struck several parked small aircraft on the west side of the airport, then crossed the airport boundary, hitting a fence and a railroad embankment. The captain closed both throttles but did not turn off electrical switches. The aircraft came to rest beyond the embankment, about half a mile west of the airport’s west boundary, on a heading of approximately 250 degrees. A fire quickly developed, but all passengers and crew evacuated before it grew major. The aircraft was destroyed. The captain observed a maximum indicated airspeed of about 100 mph shortly after gear retraction, and the maximum altitude was estimated at 25 feet.
Findings
The official investigation determined that the probable cause was loss of control due to faulty piloting technique and overloading of the aircraft. Specific findings included that the copilot was not properly certificated, having not accomplished the required six-month equipment check in this type; the aircraft was 1,100 pounds over maximum takeoff weight; takeoff used less than recommended power; and the aircraft became airborne at an indicated airspeed of 85 mph or less, before reaching a safe flying speed.