Aircraft excursion following touchdown at grass airfield

No fatalities • Iringa, Tanzania • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft veered off a wet grass runway and struck a tree during landing, resulting in the total loss of the airframe with no injuries reported.

What happened

During the landing phase of the flight, the aircraft touched down on a grassy airfield that was notably wet at the time of arrival. Shortly after contact with the surface, the plane began to swing and lost directional control, causing it to veer away from the runway path. The excursion continued until the aircraft collided with a tree located near the landing area.

Findings

  • There were no fatalities or injuries resulting from the impact.
  • The aircraft sustained damage so severe that it was considered a total loss.
  • The wet condition of the grass runway played a critical role in the loss of directional stability during the landing roll.

Probable cause

The loss of control on a wet grass surface led to the runway excursion and subsequent collision with an obstacle.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1950-03-16 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Iringa, Tanzania?

An aircraft veered off a wet grass runway and struck a tree during landing, resulting in the total loss of the airframe with no injuries reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 1950-03-16 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 1950-03-16 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration KN300, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Iringa, Tanzania.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of control on a wet grass surface led to the runway excursion and subsequent collision with an obstacle.

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