Aircraft ditching near Itaparica following dual engine failure

No fatalities • Itaparica, Brazil • Flight

A calibration flight ended in an emergency ditching off the coast of Itaparica after both engines of the aircraft failed during the return leg.

What happened

During a scheduled calibration mission, the crew departed from Salvador-Dois de Julho Airport. After completing flight operations over the ocean, the aircraft began its return journey toward Salvador. While maintaining an altitude of 1,500 feet, the right engine experienced a failure. In response to this emergency, the crew initiated a descent and decided to divert to the closest available airfield.

As the aircraft descended to 800 feet, the left engine also ceased functioning. Facing a total loss of power, the crew performed an emergency ditching in the waters near Itaparica. Although both pilots managed to swim to the coastline following the impact, the aircraft subsequently sank and was destroyed. There were zero fatalities reported among the crew, though the vessel was lost.

Findings

Investigations into the incident identified that the primary factor was a double engine failure occurring in rapid succession during the descent.

Probable cause

The aircraft experienced a simultaneous loss of power from both engines for reasons that remain undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-09-13 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident near Itaparica, Brazil?

A calibration flight ended in an emergency ditching off the coast of Itaparica after both engines of the aircraft failed during the return leg.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-09-13 Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-09-13 involved a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3), registration 2065, operated by Brazilian Air Force - Força Aérea Brasileira (1941-), at Itaparica, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a simultaneous loss of power from both engines for reasons that remain undetermined.

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