Aircraft crash following takeoff from McChord AFB

4 fatalities • McChord AFB, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

A military aircraft crashed in a pasture near McChord Air Force Base during its initial climb, resulting in three fatalities and eight injuries.

What happened

A routine flight departing from McChord Air Force Base toward California ended in an accident shortly after departure. During the initial climb phase of the flight, the aircraft experienced a stall. This loss of lift caused the plane to descend into a pasture situated just beyond the end of the runway.

The incident resulted in three fatalities among the crew members and left eight passengers injured. There was no fire reported at the crash site following the impact.

Findings

  • The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during the climb phase.
  • The accident occurred in close proximity to the runway threshold.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a stall during the initial climb phase immediately after takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-09-18 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near McChord AFB, United States of America?

A military aircraft crashed in a pasture near McChord Air Force Base during its initial climb, resulting in three fatalities and eight injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-09-18 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-09-18 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 43-49019, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at McChord AFB, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a stall during the initial climb phase immediately after takeoff.

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