Douglas DC-3 accident at Cleveland, United States of America, 24 May 1938 (NC18108)
On May 24, 1938, a Douglas DC-3 (registration NC18108) operated by United Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Cleveland, United States of America during landing or approach. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is the opinion of the Investigating Board that the probable cause of this accident was a fire in the right engine accessory section which resulted from the failure of a cylinder barrel and was fed from the right engine oil supply. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
It is the opinion of the Investigating Board that the probable cause of this accident was a fire in the right engine accessory section which resulted from the failure of a cylinder barrel and was fed from the right engine oil supply.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
The aircraft was on approach to Cleveland Airport when the right engine fired. While cruising at an altitude of 4,000 feet, the crew attempted to make an emergency landing when control was lost. The aircraft crashed in a wooded area located 14 km from the airport and was destroyed by impact forces and a post crash fire. All 10 occupants were killed. Crew: James L. Brandon, pilot, Austin S. Merrifield, copilot, Fildred A., stewardess. Passengers: John Rodd Hoffett, Elling M. Veblen, Ralph Parker Morrell, John K. Brostuen, Richard Charles Lewis, Charles T. Lickel, L. Arthur Doty.
Probable cause (official findings): It is the opinion of the Investigating Board that the probable cause of this accident was a fire in the right engine accessory section which resulted from the failure of a cylinder barrel and was fed from the right engine oil supply.