Incident Overview
During the takeoff roll on runway 26, the aircraft accelerated to an indicated airspeed of 61 knots when the pilot-in-command lost control. The aircraft swerved, veered off the runway to the left, and struck multiple obstacles. It then proceeded down an embankment, broke into several parts, and came to rest in flames adjacent to Route Nationale 7. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a post-crash fire. All three crew members sustained injuries.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined the probable cause of the loss of control. An engine malfunction occurred due to an error by the flight engineer, who had placed the main fuel selectors in a 'half-on' position. This position corresponded to the 'On' position in five of the DC-4 aircraft operated by the company.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire. All three crew members were injured during the occurrence.