No fatalities

1950-09-27: Curtiss C-46 Commando (XT-862) — Civil Air Transport — Iwakuni AFB, Japan

Iwakuni AFB, JapanLanding (descent or approach)

On September 27, 1950, a Curtiss C-46 Commando (registration XT-862) operated by Civil Air Transport was involved in an aviation accident near Iwakuni AFB, Japan during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: After landing, the copilot inadvertently opened the right throttle and left cowl flap instead of both cowl flaps. 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 1781257550Data APIEditorial standards

After landing at Iwakuni AFB, an aircraft went out of control, veered right onto soft ground, shearing off its undercarriage. The left wing crumpled as it slid. No casualties occurred, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Accident Sequence

Following touchdown on the runway at Iwakuni Air Force Base, the aircraft lost directional control and veered to the right. It departed the paved surface and contacted soft ground, causing the undercarriage to be sheared off. The aircraft continued to slide for several yards before coming to rest. During the slide, the left wing was crumpled.

Aftermath

There were no casualties resulting from the accident. However, the aircraft sustained damage that rendered it beyond economical repair.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident. After landing, the copilot inadvertently opened the right throttle and the left cowl flap instead of both cowl flaps. This action led to the loss of control and subsequent runway excursion.