On July 13, 1951, a Douglas C-54 Skymaster (registration HS-POA) operated by Siamese Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Bangkok-Don Mueang, Thailand during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the total weight of the aircraft was well above the MTOW admissible in the actual circumstances. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff, the pilot of the four-engine aircraft 'Bangkok' aborted the procedure after the aircraft failed to rotate. The aircraft overran the runway and was destroyed by fire; all occupants evacuated safely. Investigation found weight exceeded maximum takeoff weight.
Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll, the pilot in command pulled on the control column but the aircraft failed to rotate. The pilot decided to abandon the takeoff procedure and initiated an emergency landing. The aircraft was unable to stop within the remaining runway distance, overran the runway, and came to rest in flames. All occupants were evacuated safely. The aircraft, named 'Bangkok', was destroyed by fire.
Investigation
The official investigation determined that the total weight of the aircraft was well above the maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) admissible under the actual circumstances. This finding was stated as the probable cause of the accident.