On February 25, 1951, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration 44-78257) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Iwakuni AFB, Japan during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck a mountain slope because it was flying at an insufficient altitude during its final approach to the airfield. 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.
A military transport aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its final approach to Iwakuni Air Force Base, resulting in the loss of all three crew members.
What happened
While performing a final approach to Iwakuni Air Force Base, an aircraft struck the slope of a mountain located approximately 6.5 km from the runway threshold. The flight was returning to Japan after completing a supply mission out of Daegu, South Korea.
The force of the impact caused the total destruction of the airframe. There were three fatalities among the crew members on board, with no survivors reported.
Findings
The aircraft was operating at an altitude that was too low during the approach phase.
Impact with terrain occurred short of the intended runway.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck a mountain slope because it was flying at an insufficient altitude during its final approach to the airfield.
What happened in the 25 Feb 1951 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident near Iwakuni AFB, Japan?
A military transport aircraft crashed into a mountainside during its final approach to Iwakuni Air Force Base, resulting in the loss of all three crew members.
Were there any fatalities in the 25 Feb 1951 Curtiss C-46 Commando accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Feb 1951 involved a Curtiss C-46 Commando, registration 44-78257, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Iwakuni AFB, Japan.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft struck a mountain slope because it was flying at an insufficient altitude during its final approach to the airfield.
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