Fatal aircraft accident following engine failure during initial climb

28 fatalities • Cebu City, Philippines • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff due to a left engine malfunction, resulting in 28 fatalities and nine injuries.

What happened

During the initial climb phase immediately following departure from runway 03, the captain notified air traffic control regarding a failure in the left engine. Although the crew was granted authorization to perform an emergency landing at the departure airfield, the aircraft experienced a stall and a significant left bank. The plane subsequently impacted the ground approximately 4 km from the airport, resulting in a large explosion.

The accident resulted in the deaths of both pilots and 26 passengers, while nine other occupants sustained injuries.

Findings

Official investigations determined that the primary cause of the crash was the malfunction of the left engine occurring after the aircraft had surpassed V2 speed but shortly after takeoff. Several contributing factors were identified during the inquiry:

  • Limited visibility for the pilot due to nighttime conditions
  • The execution of improper emergency procedures by the flight crew

Probable cause

The failure of the left engine during the initial climb phase led to an aerodynamic stall and subsequent crash.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1960-12-22 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Cebu City, Philippines?

An aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff due to a left engine malfunction, resulting in 28 fatalities and nine injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1960-12-22 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 28 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1960-12-22 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration PI-C126, operated by Philippine Airlines - PAL, at Cebu City, Philippines.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the left engine during the initial climb phase led to an aerodynamic stall and subsequent crash.

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