Engine failure during takeoff roll leads to aircraft excursion

No fatalities • Itapebi, Brazil • Takeoff (climb)

A four-engine aircraft overran the runway and sustained heavy damage following an engine power loss during its takeoff roll.

What happened

While performing a takeoff roll, the pilot-in-command of the four-engine aircraft experienced a reduction in power from the second engine. In response to this failure, the pilot initiated an emergency braking sequence and attempted to abort the takeoff procedure.

Despite these efforts, the aircraft was unable to halt before the end of the runway. The plane subsequently overran the paved surface, resulting in the separation of its undercarriage. The vessel eventually came to a stop several dozen yards past the runway boundary. There were no fatalities among the 14 occupants, all of whom were evacuated from the wreckage without injury. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.

Findings

Investigations into the incident highlighted a discrepancy in operational decision-making. While the specific reason for the power loss on engine number two remained unconfirmed, officials noted that the captain's choice to abort the takeoff deviated from established protocols. Because the engine failure occurred after the aircraft had reached rotation speed (VR), standard operating procedures dictated that the crew should have continued the takeoff using the remaining three functional engines.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to abandon the takeoff roll after reaching rotation speed contradicted established procedures for handling an engine failure at that flight phase.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1953-03-27 De Havilland DH.114 Heron accident near Itapebi, Brazil?

A four-engine aircraft overran the runway and sustained heavy damage following an engine power loss during its takeoff roll.

Were there any fatalities in the 1953-03-27 De Havilland DH.114 Heron accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1953-03-27 involved a De Havilland DH.114 Heron, registration PP-SLG, operated by Transportes Aéreos Salvador, at Itapebi, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to abandon the takeoff roll after reaching rotation speed contradicted established procedures for handling an engine failure at that flight phase.

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