Engine failure during go-around at Kadena Air Force Base

1 fatality • Kadena AFB, Japan • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed short of the runway at Kadena Air Force Base following an engine failure during a missed approach maneuver.

What happened

While returning from a mission in Korea, an aircraft was performing its final approach to Kadena Air Force Base. During this phase of flight, the pilot in command initiated a go-around procedure for unspecified reasons. As the pilot applied increased power to both engines to execute the maneuver, one engine experienced a failure. This loss of power led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the aircraft to crash a few hundred yards before reaching the runway.

The accident resulted in one fatality and two injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed upon impact.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary factor was an engine failure occurring during the transition to a go-around, though the specific reason for the engine's malfunction remained unidentified.

Probable cause

The engine failed during the application of power for a missed approach, leading to a stall and subsequent crash.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1951-03-05 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Kadena AFB, Japan?

An aircraft crashed short of the runway at Kadena Air Force Base following an engine failure during a missed approach maneuver.

Were there any fatalities in the 1951-03-05 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1951-03-05 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 43-48483, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Kadena AFB, Japan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed during the application of power for a missed approach, leading to a stall and subsequent crash.

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