On June 16, 1956, a Douglas C-124 Globemaster II (registration 51-5183) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Enewetak Atoll, Marshall Islands during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to an insufficient approach altitude. 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 four-engine aircraft sustained heavy damage after striking the ground short of the runway during its final approach to Enewetak Atoll.
What happened
During the final approach phase of flight to Enewetak Atoll, a four-engine aircraft descended below the required altitude and made contact with the terrain approximately 400 feet before reaching the runway threshold. The impact with the ground caused the landing gear to be sheared from the airframe, resulting in a crash landing.
While the aircraft was determined to be a total loss, there were no fatalities or injuries reported among those on board.
Findings
The primary factor in the accident was that the aircraft was flying too low during its approach to the runway.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to an insufficient approach altitude.
What happened in the 16 Jun 1956 Douglas C-124 Globemaster II accident near Enewetak Atoll, Marshall Islands?
A four-engine aircraft sustained heavy damage after striking the ground short of the runway during its final approach to Enewetak Atoll.
Were there any fatalities in the 16 Jun 1956 Douglas C-124 Globemaster II accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Jun 1956 involved a Douglas C-124 Globemaster II, registration 51-5183, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Enewetak Atoll, Marshall Islands.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway due to an insufficient approach altitude.
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