On January 27, 1952, a Douglas C-54 Skymaster (registration TF-RVH) operated by Loftleidir Icelandic Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Pisa, Italy during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft failed to stop within the runway limits following touchdown, leading to a runway overrun and subsequent fire. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A four-engine cargo aircraft carrying livestock overran the runway at Pisa-San Giusto Airport, resulting in a fire and significant loss of animal life.
What happened
During a cargo operation involving the transport of 50 cows, a four-engine aircraft known as 'Helka' experienced a runway excursion at Pisa-San Giusto Airport. Following the touchdown on the runway, the aircraft encountered issues preventing it from coming to a halt within the available landing distance. The plane subsequently overran the runway and exited the paved surface, settling in a nearby ditch where a fire broke out.
While all four crew members managed to evacuate the wreckage without injury, the impact and subsequent fire resulted in heavy livestock losses. Of the 50 cows on board, only three were saved, while 47 cows perished in the accident.
Probable cause
The aircraft failed to stop within the runway limits following touchdown, leading to a runway overrun and subsequent fire.