No fatalities

Post-landing brake failure incident at Darmo in December 1941 (PK-AFJ)

Surabaya, IndonesiaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 31, 1941, a Douglas DC-2 (registration PK-AFJ) operated by KNILM - Koninklijke Nederlandse Indies Luchtvaart Maatschappij was involved in an aviation accident near Surabaya, Indonesia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Braking system failures following landing caused a loss of control on the ground. 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 2026-08-26Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced braking system failures after landing at Darmo, leading to a loss of control and severe structural damage. No injuries were reported among the occupants.

What happened

In December 1941, an airplane completed its approach and landed at Darmo. Immediately following touchdown, the aircraft encountered significant technical difficulties with its braking systems. These mechanical issues resulted in a loss of control on the ground. The aircraft veered off the intended path and came to rest in the area adjacent to the runway.

The incident caused extensive structural harm to the airframe. Specifically, the wings and fuselage sustained serious damage that rendered the airplane damaged beyond repair. Despite the severity of the physical destruction, there were no injuries reported among the occupants on board.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the accident was the failure of the braking systems after landing. This technical malfunction prevented the crew from maintaining control of the aircraft during the rollout phase, leading to the subsequent excursion and structural collapse.

Probable cause

Braking system failures following landing caused a loss of control on the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Dec 1941 Douglas DC-2 accident near Surabaya, Indonesia?

An aircraft experienced braking system failures after landing at Darmo, leading to a loss of control and severe structural damage. No injuries were reported among the occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 31 Dec 1941 Douglas DC-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Dec 1941 involved a Douglas DC-2, registration PK-AFJ, operated by KNILM - Koninklijke Nederlandse Indies Luchtvaart Maatschappij, at Surabaya, Indonesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Braking system failures following landing caused a loss of control on the ground.