4 fatalities

Fatal crash during takeoff from Westover Air Force Base (131586)

Westover AFB, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On August 12, 1953, a Douglas DC-6 (registration 131586) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Westover AFB, United States of America during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft entered an uncontrolled left bank during the initial climb, leading to a ground impact and explosion. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed and exploded shortly after departing Westover Air Force Base, resulting in the deaths of all four people on board.

What happened

During a recent departure from Westover Air Force Base, an aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure during its initial climb. While the plane was ascending to an altitude of approximately 200 feet, it began a sudden left bank.

This maneuver led to a high-impact collision with the ground, which triggered a massive explosion. The accident resulted in four fatalities, as there were no survivors among the crew members on board.

Findings

Initial reports indicate that the crash occurred during the takeoff phase of flight. The sequence of events suggests that the aircraft lost stability and entered an uncontrolled descent immediately following its liftoff from the runway.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled left bank during the initial climb, leading to a ground impact and explosion.