Engine failure and stall during approach to Calcutta-Dum Dum Airport

No fatalities • Calcutta-Dum Dum, India • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a loss of control and subsequent crash short of the runway threshold at Calcutta-Dum Dum Airport following an engine failure.

What happened

During the final approach phase toward the runway threshold at Calcutta-Dum Dum Airport, the aircraft's right engine ceased operation. Following this loss of power, the copilot-in-command lost control of the aircraft type, which subsequently entered a stall. The plane crashed before reaching the runway.

Despite the impact, there were zero fatalities among the crew members involved in the incident. Both occupants of the flight remained uninjured during the accident. However, the aircraft sustained damage that was classified as being beyond repair.

Findings

Investigations into the crash revealed that the event was triggered by an unauthorized maneuver performed by the captain. The pilot attempted to simulate a failure of the starboard engine by feathering the propeller while on final approach. This action was taken without informing the copilot, who was actively managing the flight controls at the time. Because the copilot was unaware of the sudden change in engine status, they were unable to maintain control, leading to the unannounced engine feathering and the resulting aerodynamic stall.

Probable cause

The captain's unauthorized decision to simulate an engine failure by feathering the propeller without notifying the pilot flying led to a loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1964-04-02 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Calcutta-Dum Dum, India?

An aircraft experienced a loss of control and subsequent crash short of the runway threshold at Calcutta-Dum Dum Airport following an engine failure.

Were there any fatalities in the 1964-04-02 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1964-04-02 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration VT-COU, operated by Kalinga Airlines, at Calcutta-Dum Dum, India.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The captain's unauthorized decision to simulate an engine failure by feathering the propeller without notifying the pilot flying led to a loss of control.

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