On November 21, 1951, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration VT-AUO) operated by Deccan Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Calcutta, India during landing or approach. 16 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew continued the approach at an insufficient altitude, apparently to maintain visual contact with the ground. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
On final approach in foggy conditions, an aircraft struck tree tops and crashed in flames short of the runway at Calcutta-Dum Dum Airport, resulting in 16 fatalities and one injury. Crew reportedly continued approach at insufficient altitude to maintain visual contact with the ground.
Accident Description and Findings
The crew began the descent to Calcutta-Dum Dum Airport in low visibility due to foggy conditions. On final approach, the airplane was flying too low, striking tree tops and crashing in flames a few hundred yards short of the runway threshold. The collision with trees caused the aircraft to erupt in flames and come to rest short of the intended landing area. One passenger was injured, while the other 16 occupants were killed. According to reports, the crew continued the approach at an insufficient altitude. This was apparently done to maintain visual contact with the ground, given the fog-induced low visibility.
Probable cause
The crew continued the approach at an insufficient altitude, apparently to maintain visual contact with the ground.
What happened in the 21 Nov 1951 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Calcutta, India?
On final approach in foggy conditions, an aircraft struck tree tops and crashed in flames short of the runway at Calcutta-Dum Dum Airport, resulting in 16 fatalities and one injury. Crew reportedly continued approach at insufficient altitude to maintain visual contact with the ground.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Nov 1951 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 16 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Nov 1951 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration VT-AUO, operated by Deccan Airways, at Calcutta, India.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The crew continued the approach at an insufficient altitude, apparently to maintain visual contact with the ground.
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