3 fatalities

Shanghai-Longhua Airport Crash: Engine Failure During Initial Climb (B-141)

Shanghai-Longhua, ChinaTakeoff (climb)

On April 25, 1947, a Douglas DC-3 (registration B-141) operated by China National Aviation Corporation - CNAC was involved in an aviation accident near Shanghai-Longhua, China during takeoff. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by an engine failure during the initial climb phase after takeoff. 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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into an industrial area near Shanghai-Longhua Airport shortly after takeoff due to an engine failure, resulting in three fatalities on the ground and serious injuries to the crew.

What happened

The incident occurred during the initial climb phase immediately following departure from Shanghai-Longhua Airport. Shortly after lifting off, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure involving one of its engines. This loss of power caused the airframe to stall while still at a low altitude. Unable to recover control or gain sufficient height, the plane descended rapidly and impacted an industrial zone situated in close proximity to the airport perimeter.

The crash resulted in significant casualties both on board and on the ground. The two pilots survived the impact but sustained serious injuries requiring medical attention. Tragically, the collision with structures in the nearby industrial area proved fatal for three people who were on the ground at the time of the accident.

Findings

Official investigations identified the primary factor leading to the disaster as an engine failure. This mechanical malfunction during the critical early stage of flight prevented the aircraft from maintaining lift, directly causing the stall and subsequent crash into the populated area.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an engine failure during the initial climb phase after takeoff.