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Engine Failure After Takeoff Leads to Emergency Landing Near Statesville Airport (N525W)

Statesville, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On February 29, 1968, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N525W) operated by Millers Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Statesville, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper operation of powerplant on part of the crew who failed to use anti-icing/deicing systems prior to takeoff. Icing conditions conducted to the icing of the carburetor and induction systems on the left engine that failed during initial climb. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

The left engine failed shortly after takeoff from Statesville Airport. The pilot reduced power on the right engine and made an emergency landing in a field; all four occupants escaped uninjured, but the aircraft was destroyed.

Event Details

Shortly after takeoff from Statesville Airport, while in the initial climb, the left engine failed. The pilot-in-command reduced power on the right engine and attempted an emergency landing in an open field. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair, but all four occupants escaped uninjured.

Probable Cause

The official findings determined the probable cause to be improper operation of the powerplant by the crew, who failed to use anti-icing/deicing systems prior to takeoff. Icing conditions led to the icing of the carburetor and induction systems on the left engine, which failed during the initial climb. The takeoff was completed with reduced power.

Engine failure

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