2 fatalities

Fatal aircraft accident at Wiesbaden-Erbenheim Air Base (43-15277)

Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB, GermanyTakeoff (climb)

On May 19, 1961, a Douglas C-47 Skytrain (DC-3) (registration 43-15277) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB, Germany during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft entered a stall during the climb following takeoff, leading to a fatal impact and fire. 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

A fatal crash occurred during the initial climb phase following departure from Wiesbaden-Erbenheim AFB, resulting in the loss of both crew members.

What happened

On the date of the incident, an aircraft departed from Wiesbaden-Erbenheim Air Base. During the ascent phase immediately following takeoff, the airplane experienced a loss of airspeed and entered a stall. This aerodynamic failure led to a subsequent crash that resulted in a post-impact fire.

There were two fatalities recorded during the accident, as both members of the flight crew perished in the event. The impact occurred while the aircraft was still in its climbing phase near the airfield.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the accident was an aerodynamic stall that occurred during the climb.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a stall during the climb following takeoff, leading to a fatal impact and fire.