Emergency landing attempt results in aircraft stall and crash near Salvador

No fatalities • Salvador, Brazil • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a right engine failure during climb-out, leading to a fatal stall and destruction of the plane near the runway threshold.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Salvador Airport, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure in its right engine. In response to the loss of power, the pilot-in-command initiated an emergency return to the airfield.

As the aircraft was performing its final turn to align with the runway, it lost sufficient airspeed and entered a stall. The aircraft subsequently crashed a few hundred yards from the runway threshold. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft type and caused injuries to all six occupants on board.

Findings

Investigations into the incident focused on the management of the engine failure. While the specific reason for the right engine's malfunction remained unconfirmed, a critical error was identified in the crew's response. The pilot failed to feather the propeller on the malfunctioning engine, which significantly increased aerodynamic drag and directly contributed to the loss of lift and the subsequent stall.

Probable cause

The failure to feather the propeller on the right engine increased drag and led to the aircraft stalling during its return approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1953-03-15 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Salvador, Brazil?

An aircraft experienced a right engine failure during climb-out, leading to a fatal stall and destruction of the plane near the runway threshold.

Were there any fatalities in the 1953-03-15 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 1953-03-15 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration PP-AJA, operated by Transportes Aéreos Catarinense, at Salvador, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure to feather the propeller on the right engine increased drag and led to the aircraft stalling during its return approach.

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