Aircraft overrun and fire during takeoff attempt at Bangkok

No fatalities • Bangkok-Don Mueang, Thailand • Takeoff (climb)

A four-engine aircraft experienced a failed rotation during its takeoff roll, leading to an overrun and subsequent fire that destroyed the airframe.

What happened

While performing a takeoff roll, the pilot in command of the four-engine aircraft attempted to rotate the plane by pulling on the control column. However, the aircraft type failed to lift off the runway. In response to the failure to rotate, the pilot initiated an aborted takeoff procedure to perform an emergency landing.

During the deceleration process, the aircraft was unable to come to a halt within the available runway length. The plane overran the end of the pavement and subsequently caught fire. Despite the intensity of the flames, all occupants were able to evacuate the aircraft without injury. While there were zero fatalities, the aircraft was completely destroyed by the resulting fire.

Findings

Investigations into the incident revealed that the primary contributing factor was an operational error regarding weight limits. Specifically, it was determined that the total weight of the aircraft exceeded its maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) for the given flight conditions.

Probable cause

The aircraft was operated at a weight significantly higher than the maximum allowable takeoff weight for the specific circumstances.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1951-07-13 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident near Bangkok-Don Mueang, Thailand?

A four-engine aircraft experienced a failed rotation during its takeoff roll, leading to an overrun and subsequent fire that destroyed the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 1951-07-13 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1951-07-13 involved a Douglas C-54 Skymaster, registration HS-POA, operated by Siamese Airways, at Bangkok-Don Mueang, Thailand.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was operated at a weight significantly higher than the maximum allowable takeoff weight for the specific circumstances.

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