Undercarriage retraction incident during takeoff roll

No fatalities • Mumbai, India • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a runway excursion after the crew prematurely retracted the landing gear during the takeoff sequence.

What happened

During the initial stages of the takeoff roll, the flight crew accidentally triggered the retraction of the undercarriage prior to the aircraft reaching rotation speed. This premature movement caused the aircraft to lose support from its landing gear and settle onto its belly on the runway surface.

Following the impact with the ground, the vessel slid for several dozen yards along the pavement before the motion eventually ceased. The incident resulted in zero fatalities and zero injuries among those on board.

Findings

The investigation determined that the primary factor in this event was an error made by the crew during the critical takeoff phase.

Probable cause

The crew mistakenly retracted the landing gear before the aircraft had reached rotation speed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1953-05-09 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Mumbai, India?

An aircraft experienced a runway excursion after the crew prematurely retracted the landing gear during the takeoff sequence.

Were there any fatalities in the 1953-05-09 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 1953-05-09 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration VT-AXD, operated by Air Services of India, at Mumbai, India.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew mistakenly retracted the landing gear before the aircraft had reached rotation speed.

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