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23 fatalities

Four-Engine Aircraft Crash into Sea Near Ashiya AFB (42-72457)

Ashiya AFB, JapanTakeoff (climb)

On September 26, 1950, a Douglas C-54 Skymaster (registration 42-72457) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Ashiya AFB, Japan during takeoff. 23 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A four-engine aircraft crashed into the sea 1,500 meters off Ashiya AFB shortly after takeoff, killing 23 people and rescuing 28. The exact cause remains unknown.

Incident Overview and Casualties A four-engine aircraft crashed into the sea approximately 1,500 meters off the coast of Ashiya AFB shortly after takeoff from runway 30. The accident occurred during the initial climb phase of flight. Eighteen passengers and five crew members were killed in the crash, while 28 other occupants were rescued. ## Flight Details and Investigation The aircraft was en route to Seoul-Kimpo and was carrying 43 soldiers to the Korean War theater. The exact cause of the occurrence remains unknown, as no definitive findings have been established regarding the stall and subsequent crash.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Sept 1950 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident near Ashiya AFB, Japan?

A four-engine aircraft crashed into the sea 1,500 meters off Ashiya AFB shortly after takeoff, killing 23 people and rescuing 28. The exact cause remains unknown.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Sept 1950 Douglas C-54 Skymaster accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 23 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Sept 1950 involved a Douglas C-54 Skymaster, registration 42-72457, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Ashiya AFB, Japan.

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