Engine failure and propeller separation during takeoff

1 fatality • Kalemie, Democratic Republic of Congo • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a stall and subsequent runway crash during liftoff, resulting in one fatality and five injuries.

What happened

During the rotation phase of flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of lift, leading to an aerodynamic stall. The plane impacted the runway surface immediately following liftoff, where it subsequently caught fire.

As the aircraft came to rest in flames, the incident resulted in one fatality and five injuries. The deceased occupant was identified as the flight engineer, while the remaining five individuals on board sustained various injuries during the crash sequence.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that a mechanical failure occurred at the moment of rotation. Specifically, a propeller blade separated from one of the engines. This detached component traveled into the cockpit area, which led to the death of the flight engineer.

Probable cause

The separation of a propeller blade from an engine during rotation caused it to penetrate the cockpit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1957-06-09 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Kalemie, Democratic Republic of Congo?

An aircraft experienced a stall and subsequent runway crash during liftoff, resulting in one fatality and five injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1957-06-09 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 1957-06-09 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration KP-6, operated by Belgian Air Force - Force Aérienne Belge - Belgische Luchtmacht, at Kalemie, Democratic Republic of Congo.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The separation of a propeller blade from an engine during rotation caused it to penetrate the cockpit.

Loading the flight search…