Dual engine failure and crash near Saint John's, Newfoundland

3 fatalities • Atlantic Ocean, World • Flight

A charter flight traveling from Keflavik to Saint John's crashed into the Atlantic Ocean following a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

What happened

While performing a charter operation from Keflavik to Saint John's, Newfoundland, the aircraft experienced a simultaneous failure of both engines. This loss of power occurred while the flight was en route across the Atlantic Ocean. In an attempt to reach land, the crew initiated an emergency landing procedure; however, the aircraft impacted the ocean surface approximately 160 km east of Saint John's.

The accident resulted in three fatalities, with no survivors among the occupants.

Findings

Investigations into the crash identified that the primary cause was fuel exhaustion. The aircraft encountered significant headwinds throughout the duration of the flight, which led to a much higher rate of fuel consumption than the crew had originally anticipated. These environmental conditions also impacted the flight's performance, as the ground speed dropped to 112 km/h, significantly lower than the projected 150 km/h.

Additionally, it was noted that the crew lacked previous experience operating this specific aircraft type and had no prior history of conducting transatlantic flights.

Probable cause

The aircraft ran out of fuel because unexpected strong headwinds increased consumption and reduced ground speed below planned estimates.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-11-17 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Atlantic Ocean, World?

A charter flight traveling from Keflavik to Saint John's crashed into the Atlantic Ocean following a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-11-17 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-11-17 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration CF-FOL, operated by S & H Aviation, at Atlantic Ocean, World.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft ran out of fuel because unexpected strong headwinds increased consumption and reduced ground speed below planned estimates.

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