Emergency landing of aircraft following engine failure over Belgium

No fatalities • Deftinge, Belgium • Flight

An aircraft traveling from Paris to Copenhagen crashed in a Belgian field after experiencing engine issues, resulting in no injuries.

What happened

A flight originating from Paris-Orly and destined for Copenhagen-Kastrup experienced a significant mechanical malfunction while traversing Belgian airspace. During the flight, the crew identified technical difficulties involving one of the engines. In response to the developing situation, the captain instructed the other members of the crew to abandon the aircraft via parachute.

The pilot remained on board to attempt an emergency descent. During this process, the aircraft made contact with a line of trees, which caused the separation of the tail section. The plane subsequently impacted a field. Despite the severity of the impact and the destruction of the airframe, the pilot survived the crash without injury. The four other crew members who had evacuated were also unharmed.

Findings

The investigation determined that the primary factor leading to the accident was an engine failure.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by a mechanical failure of one of the engines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1955-05-28 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Deftinge, Belgium?

An aircraft traveling from Paris to Copenhagen crashed in a Belgian field after experiencing engine issues, resulting in no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1955-05-28 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 1955-05-28 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 43-48479, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Deftinge, Belgium.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by a mechanical failure of one of the engines.

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