Engine failure during ILS calibration near Pittsburgh

No fatalities • Pittsburgh-Intl, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An engine failure during an instrument landing system calibration approach led to a crash in Coraopolis, resulting in injuries to all three crew members.

What happened

During an operational procedure to calibrate the Instrument Landing System (ILS) at the Greater Pittsburgh Airport, an aircraft experienced a critical power loss. While the flight was executing an approach from the northeast direction, one of the engines ceased functioning.

Following the engine failure, the aircraft type lost necessary altitude and descended into a wooded area. The impact occurred in Coraopolis, situated approximately three miles northeast of the airport perimeter. The crash resulted in three injuries among the crew members, and the aircraft was completely destroyed upon impact.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the engine failure was a direct result of fuel starvation. This condition was triggered by a leak in the poppet seal of the left fuel selector valve.

Probable cause

The engine failed due to fuel starvation caused by a leaking poppet seal in the left fuel selector valve.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1965-11-09 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Pittsburgh-Intl, United States of America?

An engine failure during an instrument landing system calibration approach led to a crash in Coraopolis, resulting in injuries to all three crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1965-11-09 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 1965-11-09 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration N52, operated by Federal Aviation Administration - FAA, at Pittsburgh-Intl, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed due to fuel starvation caused by a leaking poppet seal in the left fuel selector valve.

Loading the flight search…