4 fatalities

1962-08-13: De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver — United States Army — Horath, Germany

Horath, GermanyFlight

On August 13, 1962, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver operated by United States Army was involved in an aviation accident near Horath, Germany in flight. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft experienced a loss of power due to an engine failure while en route. 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 1781244535Data APIEditorial standards

A liaison flight departing from Spandgahlem Airbase resulted in a fatal crash north of Horath after the aircraft experienced an engine malfunction.

What happened

A mission involving a liaison aircraft was being conducted from Spandgahlem Airbase when the flight encountered critical difficulties. While traveling en route, the aircraft suffered a sudden engine failure, which led to a significant loss of altitude.

During the descent, the plane made contact with a tree. Following this impact, the aircraft became uncontrollable and subsequently crashed into an open field situated approximately 2 km north of Horath. The accident resulted in four fatalities, as all occupants on board were killed in the impact.

Findings

The investigation into the crash sequence determined that the primary factor leading to the loss of control was the mechanical failure of the engine during the flight phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a loss of power due to an engine failure while en route.