Aircraft fire following undershoot at Hamilton-Kindley Field Airport

No fatalities • Hamilton, Bermuda • Landing (descent or approach)

A four-engine aircraft sustained heavy damage after striking the ground short of the runway during its approach to Bermuda.

What happened

A flight traveling from England toward Florida, which included a scheduled stop at Hamilton-Kindley Field Airport in Bermuda, experienced an accident during its arrival phase. While performing the final approach to the airfield, the four-engine aircraft descended below the required altitude and struck the terrain before reaching the runway threshold.

The impact caused the aircraft to come to a halt while engulfed in flames. Despite the intensity of the fire, all 50 occupants managed to evacuate the plane without any reported fatalities or injuries. The aircraft itself was completely destroyed by the subsequent blaze.

Findings

  • The aircraft was positioned too low during the final approach phase.
  • The impact occurred short of the runway threshold.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground before reaching the runway due to an insufficient approach altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1953-09-06 Douglas DC-6 accident near Hamilton, Bermuda?

A four-engine aircraft sustained heavy damage after striking the ground short of the runway during its approach to Bermuda.

Were there any fatalities in the 1953-09-06 Douglas DC-6 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1953-09-06 involved a Douglas DC-6, registration 131583, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Hamilton, Bermuda.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground before reaching the runway due to an insufficient approach altitude.

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