Engine failure during approach to Habbaniya Air Base

No fatalities • Habbaniyah AFB, Iraq • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a dual engine failure while on final approach to Habbaniya AFB, resulting in a crash short of the runway.

What happened

During the final approach phase toward the threshold of the runway at Habbaniya Air Base, the aircraft suffered a simultaneous loss of power in both engines. This sudden cessation of thrust led to an aerodynamic stall. Consequently, the aircraft impacted the ground a few hundred yards before reaching the runway.

There were no injuries reported among those on board following the impact. However, the aircraft sustained heavy damage and was declared a total loss.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the accident was the simultaneous failure of both engines during the approach to the airfield.

Probable cause

The dual engine failure caused the aircraft to stall and crash short of the runway threshold.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1950-05-03 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Habbaniyah AFB, Iraq?

An aircraft experienced a dual engine failure while on final approach to Habbaniya AFB, resulting in a crash short of the runway.

Were there any fatalities in the 1950-05-03 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 1950-05-03 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration KN543, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Habbaniyah AFB, Iraq.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The dual engine failure caused the aircraft to stall and crash short of the runway threshold.

Loading the flight search…