On May 4, 1985, a Douglas DC-3 (registration N157U) operated by Perris Valley Skydiving Club was involved in an aviation accident near Perris Valley, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of propeller blade, non-compliance with airworthiness directive by company maintenance personnel, and blade separation during takeoff roll, leading to an engine fire. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft experienced a left engine fire during takeoff roll. The pilot stopped the aircraft on the runway, and all 31 skydivers and two crew members evacuated without injury. Investigation revealed a missing propeller blade and no evidence of compliance with a mandatory airworthiness directive.
Incident Summary
During the takeoff roll, the left engine of the aircraft caught fire. The pilot successfully brought the aircraft to a stop on the runway, and all 31 skydivers and the two-member crew evacuated without injury.
Propeller Blade Findings
The left engine propeller had lost one blade. The missing blade was discovered several days later approximately 3,000 feet west of the wreckage. Investigators found no evidence to substantiate that the mandatory airworthiness directive concerning the propeller blade had been complied with.
Probable Cause
The official findings identified two occurrences. Occurrence #1 was an airframe/component/system failure or malfunction during the takeoff roll, with three findings: (1) propeller blade failure, (2) company maintenance personnel failed to obtain compliance with the airworthiness directive, and (3) propeller blade separation. Occurrence #2 was a fire or explosion during the takeoff roll.