Engine failure during takeoff leads to runway excursion

No fatalities • São Paulo-Congonhas, Brazil • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft veered off the runway and struck an embankment following a right engine failure during its takeoff roll.

What happened

While performing the takeoff roll, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure in the right-hand engine. This loss of power resulted in the pilot in command losing directional control of the aircraft. Consequently, the plane drifted off the runway and crashed into an earth bank.

The impact was severe enough to shear the left engine from the airframe, causing extensive structural damage that rendered the aircraft a total loss. Despite the intensity of the collision, all 24 occupants were successfully pulled from the wreckage. Among those rescued, three individuals sustained minor injuries during the event.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the loss of control was the failure of the right engine during the initial phase of flight.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by a failure of the right engine during the takeoff roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1950-05-26 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near São Paulo-Congonhas, Brazil?

An aircraft veered off the runway and struck an embankment following a right engine failure during its takeoff roll.

Were there any fatalities in the 1950-05-26 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 1950-05-26 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration PP-SPV, operated by VASP - Viação Aérea de São Paulo, at São Paulo-Congonhas, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by a failure of the right engine during the takeoff roll.

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