Aircraft accident at Basa Air Force Base

40 fatalities • Basa AFB (Floridablanca), Philippines • Takeoff (climb)

A fatal crash involving a military transport aircraft occurred near Floridablanca following an engine failure during the initial climb.

What happened

During a departure from Basa Air Force Base, located north of Floridablanca, an aircraft experienced a critical mechanical issue shortly after leaving the runway. While the flight was ascending to an altitude of approximately 200 feet, the left engine ceased functioning. This loss of power caused the aircraft to bank toward the left side.

As the plane lost airspeed, it entered a stall condition. The descent continued until the aircraft impacted the ground approximately 800 meters beyond the end of the runway. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were 40 fatalities recorded among the occupants, which included 10 military officers and 26 family members.

Findings

Official investigations determined that the primary factor in the accident was the failure of the left engine during the early stages of the climb.

Probable cause

The loss of power in the left engine during the initial ascent led to an aerodynamic stall and subsequent crash.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-04-15 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Basa AFB (Floridablanca), Philippines?

A fatal crash involving a military transport aircraft occurred near Floridablanca following an engine failure during the initial climb.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-04-15 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 40 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-04-15 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 293246, operated by Philippine Air Force - Hukbong Himpapawid NG Pilipinas, at Basa AFB (Floridablanca), Philippines.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of power in the left engine during the initial ascent led to an aerodynamic stall and subsequent crash.

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