What happened
During a simulated Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach into Pittsburgh, the crew of a Douglas DC-4 transitioned to visual references once the runway became visible. While continuing the descent visually, the aircraft began descending at an excessive rate. In an attempt to correct the vertical speed, the captain increased engine power; however, the aircraft's right main landing gear impacted an embankment located before the runway threshold.
Following the impact, the crew initiated a go-around procedure by applying full power. During the subsequent holding pattern while preparing for a second approach, the aircraft encountered intense buffeting and an onboard fire involving the number three engine. Despite these complications, the flight crew managed to land the plane safely. All 55 occupants were successfully evacuated from the aircraft without reported injuries.
Findings
Investigations into the incident identified that the primary contributing factors were an improper approach configuration and a failure in coordination between the flight crew members.