2 fatalities

Gunsan AFB Aircraft Crash (44-35958)

Gunsan, South KoreaTakeoff (climb)

On August 30, 1951, a Douglas A-26 Invader (registration 44-35958) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Gunsan, South Korea during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure and fire. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Gunsan AFB due to an engine failure and fire, killing two crew members and injuring a third.

Incident Overview and Casualties An aircraft crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Gunsan AFB. The accident occurred while the aircraft was climbing. The incident resulted in the deaths of two crew members and injuries to a third occupant. The crew members involved were 1st Lt Ford M. Garvin, Cpt Richard A. Grablin, and Lt Col James H. Moyer Jr., with the latter two listed as deceased in the source material. ## Probable Cause The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was an engine failure and fire. The engine failure occurred shortly after takeoff, leading to a fire that caused the aircraft to go out of control and crash into the sea.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Aug 1951 Douglas A-26 Invader accident near Gunsan, South Korea?

An aircraft crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Gunsan AFB due to an engine failure and fire, killing two crew members and injuring a third.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Aug 1951 Douglas A-26 Invader accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Aug 1951 involved a Douglas A-26 Invader, registration 44-35958, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Gunsan, South Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure and fire