Aircraft fire following runway excursion during takeoff

No fatalities • Villa Harding Green, Argentina • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft caught fire after veering off the runway during its takeoff roll, though all occupants escaped without injury.

What happened

During the initial stages of the takeoff roll, the aircraft began to oscillate, moving away from the runway centerline toward the left before swinging back toward the right. As the aircraft drifted toward the right side of the runway, the pilot-in-command attempted to maintain control but ultimately could not prevent the plane from exiting the paved surface.

Upon leaving the runway, the aircraft came to a stop and was subsequently consumed by fire. Despite the intensity of the flames, all four individuals on board were able to exit the wreckage safely. The aircraft was completely destroyed as a result of the post-crash fire.

Findings

Investigations into the incident identified that the pilot failed to provide sufficient corrective inputs to manage the aircraft's lateral movement during the start of the takeoff run. This lack of adequate handling, attributed to insufficient experience, was a primary factor in the excursion. Additionally, a failure of the starboard engine was noted as a contributing element to the loss of directional control.

Probable cause

The pilot's inability to correct the aircraft's swerving during takeoff, compounded by a likely malfunction of the right engine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1954-12-02 Douglas DC-2 accident near Villa Harding Green, Argentina?

An aircraft caught fire after veering off the runway during its takeoff roll, though all occupants escaped without injury.

Were there any fatalities in the 1954-12-02 Douglas DC-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1954-12-02 involved a Douglas DC-2, registration LV-AHI, operated by Private Argentina, at Villa Harding Green, Argentina.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inability to correct the aircraft's swerving during takeoff, compounded by a likely malfunction of the right engine.

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