No fatalities

1965-11-09: Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (N52) — Federal Aviation Administration - FAA — Pittsburgh-Intl, United States of America

Pittsburgh-Intl, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On November 9, 1965, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration N52) operated by Federal Aviation Administration - FAA was involved in an aviation accident near Pittsburgh-Intl, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure caused by fuel starvation due to the left fuel selector valve poppet seal leakage. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781241625Data APIEditorial standards

During an ILS calibration approach to Pittsburgh-Greater Pittsburgh Airport, the aircraft's engine failed. The airplane lost altitude, struck trees, and crashed near Coraopolis, Pennsylvania. All three crew members sustained injuries and the aircraft was destroyed.

Accident Overview

On the day of the accident, a crew was performing calibration of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) at Pittsburgh-Greater Pittsburgh Airport. While approaching the airport from the northeast, the aircraft's engine stopped. The airplane subsequently lost height, struck trees, and crashed in Coraopolis, approximately three miles northeast of the airfield.

Sequence of Events

The flight was conducting ILS calibration procedures. As the aircraft approached from the northeast, the engine ceased operation. The loss of power caused the airplane to descend. It struck trees and impacted terrain in Coraopolis. The aircraft was destroyed in the crash.

Injuries and Damage

All three crew members on board were injured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage and was destroyed.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be engine failure caused by fuel starvation due to the left fuel selector valve poppet seal leakage.